Achieve Net-Zero through Energy Benchmarking.

Net-zero is the ultimate goal of sustainable building design and operation. Net zero can only be achieved by energy benchmarking. This means a building produces as much energy as it consumes over a year, typically through energy efficiency measures and on-site renewable energy generation. Achieving net zero reduces a building’s carbon footprint and energy bills and enhances its resilience, comfort, and health for occupants. This blog post will explore strategies for achieving net zero in commercial and residential buildings.

Commercial Buildings:

Commercial buildings consume significant energy for heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting, and equipment. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, commercial buildings accounted for 18% of total U.S. energy consumption in 2019. Because consumption can be so high, multiple states now require energy benchmarking. To achieve net zero, commercial buildings need to implement the following measures:

1. Energy efficiency: Improving efficiency is the first step to reducing a building’s energy consumption. This can be done through various means, such as upgrading insulation, sealing air leaks, installing high-performance windows, using efficient lighting and HVAC systems, and optimizing controls and sensors. Energy benchmarking and energy audits can help identify areas of improvement and track progress.
2. On-site renewable energy: The next step is to generate renewable energy on-site after reducing the building’s energy demand. This can be done through solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, wind turbines, geothermal heat pumps, or other technologies, depending on the site’s resources and conditions. The renewable energy system should be sized and designed to match the building’s energy needs and optimize its performance.
3. Energy storage and management: To ensure a reliable and cost-effective energy supply, commercial buildings may need to store excess energy from their renewable sources and manage their energy use dynamically. Battery storage systems, thermal storage systems, and intelligent controls can help achieve this goal. Some buildings may also benefit from demand response programs that incentivize them to reduce their energy use during peak hours.
4. Green building certifications: Finally, commercial buildings can pursue green building certifications such as LEED, WELL, or Living Building Challenge to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, health, and performance. These certifications have specific requirements and standards for energy efficiency, renewable energy, indoor air quality, water conservation, and other sustainable building design and operation aspects.

Residential Buildings:

Residential buildings also consume significant energy for heating, cooling, lighting, and appliances. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, residential buildings accounted for 21% of total U.S. energy consumption in 2019. Before measuring, many starts require developers and building owners to provide energy benchmarking. To achieve net zero, residential buildings need to implement the following measures:

1. Passive design: The first step to reducing a building’s energy consumption is to incorporate passive design principles that optimize the building’s orientation, layout, insulation, ventilation, and shading. Passive solar design, for example, uses the sun’s energy to heat and light the building naturally. In contrast, the passive cooling design uses natural ventilation and shading to cool the building without relying on air conditioning.
2. Energy-efficient appliances: After reducing the building’s energy demand, the next step is to use energy-efficient appliances that consume less energy for the same function. Energy Star-certified appliances, for example, can save up to 50% of energy compared to standard appliances.

3. On-site renewable energy: Residential buildings can also generate renewable energy on-site through solar PV panels, wind turbines, or other technologies, depending on the site’s resources and conditions. The renewable energy system should be sized and designed to match the building’s energy needs and optimize its performance.

4. Energy storage and management: To ensure a reliable and cost-effective energy supply, residential buildings may need to store excess energy from their renewable sources and manage their energy use dynamically. Battery storage systems, smart thermostats, and energy management apps can help achieve this goal. Some buildings may also benefit from time-of-use rates incentivizing them to shift their energy use to off-peak hours.

5. Green building certifications: Finally, residential buildings can pursue green building certifications such as LEED for Homes, Passive House, or Zero Energy Ready Homes to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, health, and performance. These certifications have specific requirements and standards for energy efficiency, renewable energy, indoor air quality, water conservation, and other sustainable building design and operation aspects.

Conclusion

Achieving net zero in commercial and residential buildings requires a holistic approach integrating energy efficiency, renewable energy, energy storage and management, and green building certifications. The strategies and technologies may vary depending on the building type, location, and budget. Still, the overarching goal is to reduce the building’s carbon footprint and energy bills while enhancing its resilience, comfort, and health for occupants. By adopting net zero principles, we can create a built environment that supports a sustainable and prosperous future for all.

To learn more about net-zero commercial and residential buildings and how to get started, check out FADRS. 

Looking for assistance with BEPS Compliance? Contact Bauer Energy or call them at 202-681-9054.