Energy simulation and life cycle cost discussion for a novel fixed model in offices as a zero energy building in a country with hot and cold dry weather

This paper presents a new configuration of heating and cooling systems for a net zero energy building (NZEB). In this paper, one design for Net Zero Energy Building(NZEB) systems is simulated, which can provide cooling and heating needs in a wide variety of climates. This current model benefits from direct evaporating cooling (DEC) which is coupled with the ground instead of the chiller in order to reduce the consumption of energy, water usage, and humidity of indoor air. The PV cells and heat pump that are connected to the ground generate electricity and heating energy, respectively in the building besides domestic hot water is provided by solar collectors. This model is simulated in ten cities of Iran as a multi climate country with six various major climates. The Life Cycle Cost (LCC)is calculated for all of these cities and the value is compared with the usual systems. The results show the possibility of an NZEB in various dry weather in Iran, furthermore the thermal comfort situation is confirmed. The cooling energy demand proportion to other energy usage tends to be zero. The LCC value will be able to reduce to 50% of the usual systems.

Automated summary

This paper presents a new configuration of heating and cooling systems for a net zero energy building, which combines direct evaporating cooling with ground-coupling to reduce energy consumption. Through simulation in ten cities in Iran, it is confirmed that this system is suitable for a wide variety of climates and can reduce lifecycle costs compared to conventional systems.