Net-Zero-Energy Building: A Case Study Using Ecotect Software Under Beirut Weather Conditions

We investigated the concept of net-zero-energy building (NZEB) and applied it to a case study of a 100 m2 house in Beirut weather using Ecotect software. To optimize the building’s energy efficiency, a number of passive design strategies, including building envelope, orientation, glazing, and shading, will be studied in the first segment. 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 facade with a 6 mm air gap would all help to lower the energy needed. The savings were realized at a rate of 46%.