Net Zero Energy Building: A Case Study Using ECOTECT Software under Beirut Weather Conditions

We investigated the concept of NZEB and applied it to a case study of a 100 m2 home in Beirut weather using Ecotect software. A number of passive design strategies, including building envelope, orientation, glazing, and shading, will be studied in the first segment to optimize the building’s energy efficiency. In the second segment, a renewable energy source will be used to cover the remaining load necessary to meet the NZEB criteria. Our research indicates that 192.5˚ is the optimal facade orientation to minimize solar gains throughout the summer. Double walls measuring 10 cm with a 4 cm air gap make up the perfect wall envelopes. The results of the glazing and shading study showed that windows with a timber frame, a low E coat, and an overhanging west façade with a 6 mm air gap would all help to lower the energy needed. 46% of the savings were realized.