Evaluation of energy performance of smart community considering occupant's behaviour

Abstract

In Japan, the recent development of "smart communities" - low-carbon residential areas consisting of hundreds of detached homes - has received a great deal of attention. However, the energy performance of such communities has yet to be measured effectively. In this study, the energy demand and photovoltaics (PV) generation of a simulated smart community are estimated using a bottom-up model. Energy performance is shown quantitatively using various evaluation indicators. Results suggest that, under Osaka-like climate conditions, it is possible to build a zero-energy community by installing a 5.0 kW PV unit in each house and orienting the houses to the south. The model also shows a 16% increase in energy demand 30 years after initial construction due to the aging of residents and corresponding changes in household size and resident characteristics.