The Simulation and Design of Zero-Energy Homes—A Comparison between Photo-Voltaic, Solar-Thermal, and Photo-Voltaic-Thermal Systems †

Abstract

The domestic sector is the leading energy consumer in Pakistan. Due to an increase in population, urbanization, and economic development, energy demand is increasing day by day. To meet this energy demand, net-zero energy buildings provide the optimal solution. In zero energy buildings, energy demand is met by renewable energy sources, such as solar energy. This study describes techniques of home design using simulation, and energy conservation is achieved by using proper construction techniques and insulation materials in building construction. In this study, the actual climate data of different climate zones in Pakistan is being used to design zero-energy homes. The results show that there is a remarkable difference between the energy demand of standard homes and homes proposed by the simulator used. The total energy performance index of a house decreased from 94.6% to 67.6%. The comparative simulation analysis of different solar energy system solutions such as solar thermal, photo-voltaic, and hybrid photo-voltaic-thermal modules for different climate zones in Pakistan, is presented in this paper. This study also describes the best combination of solar energy systems to reach a close-to-zero energy balance and the results depend on the building design and design of building energy systems. A cost analysis based on the rate of return on investment is also presented to motivate the usage of this method.