Transitioning Toward Net-Zero Residential Buildings (N-ZRBs) on the Arabian Gulf Region

Abstract

This research investigates residential building energy performance and feasible energy efficient measures to achieve Net Zero Energy Homes (NZEHs) on the eastern Arabian Gulf peninsula, considering the local vernacular architecture context and passive cooling techniques, regional hot and humid climate conditions, occupants' needs, and cultural requirements. The simple definition of an (NZEH) is when the building is energy-self-sufficient throughout the year. This research investigation has been accomplished through a comprehensively staged research methodology. It included an extensive literature review examining how ancestral communities coped with the harsh climate of the east coast of the Arabian Gulf peninsula in the absence of electricity. Additionally, it involved an analysis of the energy consumption trends in residential buildings within the region, identifying key design characteristics typical to Arabian Gulf residential buildings, and using computer modeling IESVE to illustrate a future Net Zero Energy Home (NZEH) of the region. The results from computer modeling IESVE of a designed base case indicated that implementing passive cooling ventilation only, such as using natural ventilation through techniques like wind catchers, wind scopes, and an operable door located within a courtyard, produced only marginal reductions in total energy consumption (less than 10%). However, integrating supplementary Energy Efficiency Measures (EEMs), such as enhancing thermal insulation, implementing shading strategies, and improving Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) efficiency, led to a further 30% decrease in the building's energy consumption.

While the research shows that achieving annual energy self-sufficiency and reaching Zero Energy Home (ZEH) status is possible in the Arabian Gulf region, it also highlights the challenges. Installing active renewable Photovoltaic (PV) panels on the building's roof is crucial. According to this research investigation, the NZEH concept can be applied to the region, but making it feasible throughout the year is complex. The installation of solar panels made the NZEH energy simulation prototype self-sufficient annually. The definition of an NZE-ready house is when the house reaches a low energy consumption level, which makes it feasible to install solar panels at this stage. For this investigation’s 250 m² prototype, the total power generated by the PV system during the year was 17.1 MWh, while the NZE-ready house usage was around 16.6 MWh. However, the solar panel system could not meet the total energy demand in the summer months from July to December, with an average deficiency of around 7%. Nevertheless, the PV system has ten batteries with a 4.8 kw/h capacity for each, which can cover this deficit. Additionally, compared with traditional building construction, the cost penalty of constructing an NZEH increases construction costs by more than 15%, with a payback period of roughly ten years. The increase in the construction cost is mainly due to installing the solar panel systems, which, in the case of this research prototype, cost around $25,000. Finally, this study contributes to the existing body of knowledge in the field of sustainable building construction by providing a framework, recommendations, and guidelines to promote the adoption of Zero-Energy Homes (ZEHs) in the harsh, hot, and humid climate of the East Coast of the Arabian Gulf and region with smaller climate in general.