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Energies
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Low-Carbon Building and City Strategies in Different Dimensions
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Low-Carbon Building and City Strategies in Different Dimensions

A special issue of Energies (ISSN 1996-1073). This special issue belongs to the section "G: Energy and Buildings".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 September 2023) | Viewed by 19726

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Ning Li

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Faculty of Architecture, Civil and Transportation Engineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China
Interests: digital architecture
Prof. Dr. Jian Dai

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China
Interests: green architecture
Prof. Dr. Weirong Zhang

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Faculty of Architecture, Civil and Transportation Engineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China
Interests: ventilation; low-carbon; fault diagnosis with big data
Dr. Ziwei Li

E-Mail
Guest Editor
College of Architecture & Urban Planning, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
Interests: heating in buildings; low-carbon

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The Guest Editors are inviting submissions to a Special Issue of Energies in the subject area of “Low-Carbon Building and City Strategies in Different Dimensions”. To achieve the goal of a low-carbon society, architects need to consider design strategies from different dimensions such as urban planning, community organization, individual buildings, and detailed structures. Performance simulation, experimentation, and actual measurement can be used in this effort. Each guideline’s summary needs to start from the climate in consideration of the existing conditions. If enough techniques become available, it could form the basis of a direct-reference dictionary that can be used by designers and professionals.

This Special Issue will deal with energy-saving design means for different climates at scales from macro to micro. Topics of interest for publication include, but are not limited to:

  • Low-carbon cities;
  • Low-carbon communities;
  • Urban green node design;
  • Green building;
  • Energy-saving renovation strategies for existing buildings;
  • Public space promotion design based on microclimate;
  • Passive humanized detail design;
  • The wisdom of ancient energy-saving buildings.

Dr. Ning Li
Prof. Jian Dai
Prof. Weirong Zhang
Dr. Ziwei Li
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Energies is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • low-carbon
  • energy-saving
  • design strategy
  • green building
  • public space
  • detail design
  • ancient construction wisdom

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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19 pages, 2881 KiB  
Article
Retrofit Analysis of City-Scale Residential Buildings in the Hot Summer and Cold Winter Climate Zone
by Yanfei Ji, Guangchen Li, Fanghan Su, Yixing Chen and Rongpeng Zhang
Energies 2023, 16(17), 6152; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16176152 - 24 Aug 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1732
Abstract
The rising energy consumption in residential buildings within the hot summer and cold winter (HSCW) climate zone, driven by occupants’ pursuit of improved thermal comfort, necessitates effective energy conservation measures. This study established urban building energy models for 32,145 residential buildings in Changsha [...] Read more.
The rising energy consumption in residential buildings within the hot summer and cold winter (HSCW) climate zone, driven by occupants’ pursuit of improved thermal comfort, necessitates effective energy conservation measures. This study established urban building energy models for 32,145 residential buildings in Changsha City, China, and conducted a comprehensive retrofit analysis of seven energy conservation measures (ECMs). Additionally, the study assessed the impact of residents’ conscious energy-saving behaviors concerning air conditioner (AC) control. The research commenced by creating six baseline models representative of the diverse building stock. Identifying seven commonly used ECMs, the study examined the potential of each measure for enhancing energy efficiency. To facilitate the analysis, a dedicated toolkit, AutoBPS-Retrofit, was developed to efficiently modify the baseline model for each ECM. Furthermore, the investigation delved into the investment cost of implementing the ECMs and evaluated their simple payback year (PBP) and net present value (NPV). The results demonstrate that tailored retrofit plans are essential when addressing envelope improvements, varying according to building types and ages. Retrofits targeting lighting systems offer both promising energy savings and favorable economic viability, albeit subject to residents’ preferences. Alternatively, upgrading the AC systems emerges as the most energy-efficient approach, yet the economic assessment raises concerns. The study’s findings offer practical insights for governments seeking to establish effective carbon reduction goals and policies. Moreover, the research can assist energy-saving institutions, real-estate companies, and stakeholders involved in renovation projects by offering guidance in making informed decisions to enhance energy efficiency in city-scale residential buildings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Low-Carbon Building and City Strategies in Different Dimensions)
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23 pages, 12888 KiB  
Article
Energy-Saving Potential Comparison of Different Photovoltaic Integrated Shading Devices (PVSDs) for Single-Story and Multi-Story Buildings
by Shaohang Shi, Jingfen Sun, Mengjia Liu, Xinxing Chen, Weizhi Gao and Yehao Song
Energies 2022, 15(23), 9196; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15239196 - 4 Dec 2022
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 2445
Abstract
Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) façades are a promising technique for improving building energy performance. This study develops energy simulation models of different photovoltaic-integrated shading devices (PVSDs) in single-story and multi-story office buildings. A cross-region study in China is carried out to explore the energy [...] Read more.
Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) façades are a promising technique for improving building energy performance. This study develops energy simulation models of different photovoltaic-integrated shading devices (PVSDs) in single-story and multi-story office buildings. A cross-region study in China is carried out to explore the energy performance of PVSDs in five climate zones. The shading effect of the upper PVSDs is taken into account. The results show that (1) PVSDs can be applicable in hot and cold climates; shading effects lead to a notable difference in the optimal PVSDs style. The average comprehensive energy saving ratios of different PVSDs ranged from 16.12% (fixed PV louvres in the vertical plane) to 51.95% (lower single panel). The most rewarding PVSDs are for single-story buildings in Kunming and the least suitable are for multi-story buildings in Guangzhou. (2) In climate zones with little air-conditioning energy consumption, avoiding considerably increased lighting consumption by PVSDs is vital. (3) To reduce shading effects, solar panels with smaller widths or vertical placements can be adopted. In addition, the distance of the PV modules from the top edge of the windows is also critical. Building performance evaluation in the early design stage enables maximum benefits for the same input (total area of PV panels). The research methodology and data analysis presented can guide parameters design and the geographical applicability of PVSDs, providing a reference for optimal building energy performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Low-Carbon Building and City Strategies in Different Dimensions)
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24 pages, 5036 KiB  
Article
Low-Carbon Retrofitting Path of Existing Public Buildings: A Comparative Study Based on Green Building Rating Systems
by Ke Liu, Jianglan Tian, Jianping Chen and Yueming Wen
Energies 2022, 15(22), 8724; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15228724 - 20 Nov 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2991
Abstract
Existing building carbon emissions contribute to global climate change significantly. Various Green Building Rating Systems (GBRS) have considered low-carbon requirements to regulate the emissions. Low-carbon retrofitting is an important way to reduce existing building CO2 emissions. However, low-carbon retrofitting of existing public [...] Read more.
Existing building carbon emissions contribute to global climate change significantly. Various Green Building Rating Systems (GBRS) have considered low-carbon requirements to regulate the emissions. Low-carbon retrofitting is an important way to reduce existing building CO2 emissions. However, low-carbon retrofitting of existing public buildings is not sufficient and systematic, and there is a lack of research on low-carbon retrofitting from the perspective of GBRS. The purpose of this study is to propose a carbon emission control framework for existing public buildings based on GBRS analysis and guide the low-carbon retrofitting. This study makes comparisons among the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM), Green Mark (GM), and Assessment Standard for Green Retrofitting of Existing Buildings (ASGREB). A low-carbon retrofit pathway for existing public buildings is proposed from the GBRS research for the first time, encompassing six aspects: materials, energy, management, innovation, site, and water, involving 15 measures. Among them, measures on energy and materials are the main considerations, with weights of 18.3% and 17.7%, respectively. Six recommendations for implementation pathways are also given. Furthermore, the necessary measures, the importance of local context and quantification, priorities of materials, and energy scopes are defined. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Low-Carbon Building and City Strategies in Different Dimensions)
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18 pages, 4388 KiB  
Article
Effect of Open-Window Gaps on the Thermal Environment inside Vehicles Exposed to Solar Radiation
by Xiaoxiao Ding, Weirong Zhang, Zhen Yang, Jiajun Wang, Lingtao Liu, Dalong Gao, Dongdong Guo and Jianyin Xiong
Energies 2022, 15(17), 6411; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15176411 - 2 Sep 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2621
Abstract
To avoid a sharp rise in temperature in the cabin of parked vehicles exposed to solar radiation, experienced drivers leave some windows partly open when the vehicle is parked in the sunlight to achieve cooling through natural ventilation. However, the effectiveness of this [...] Read more.
To avoid a sharp rise in temperature in the cabin of parked vehicles exposed to solar radiation, experienced drivers leave some windows partly open when the vehicle is parked in the sunlight to achieve cooling through natural ventilation. However, the effectiveness of this measure to reduce the temperature under different weather conditions has not been verified. To this end, this study investigates the effect of open windows on the thermal environment of a vehicle under different environmental conditions. A field measurement, in which two identical vehicles with and without window gaps were used, was carried out in Daxing District, Beijing. The measurements were conducted for 15 days under different window gaps and ambient conditions. The results revealed that open windows resulted in a maximum temperature reduction of 6.7 °C in cabin air temperature under high temperature and high solar radiation, while only 0.6 °C can be reduced under low temperature and low solar radiation. The results also showed that when window gaps effectively reduce the air temperature, lower air temperature can be obtained with larger open-window areas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Low-Carbon Building and City Strategies in Different Dimensions)
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11 pages, 11424 KiB  
Article
Heating/Cooling Fresh Air Using Hot/Cold Exhaust Air of Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning Systems
by Mahmoud Khaled, Samer Ali, Hassan Jaber, Jalal Faraj, Rabih Murr and Thierry Lemenand
Energies 2022, 15(5), 1877; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15051877 - 3 Mar 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3297
Abstract
This paper suggests a heat recovery concept that is based on preheating/precooling the cold/hot fresh outside air by means of the relatively hot/cold exhaust air in winter/summer weather conditions. To investigate the feasibility of such a concept, an experimental setup is established to [...] Read more.
This paper suggests a heat recovery concept that is based on preheating/precooling the cold/hot fresh outside air by means of the relatively hot/cold exhaust air in winter/summer weather conditions. To investigate the feasibility of such a concept, an experimental setup is established to simulate conditions similar to an All-Air HVAC system. The prototype consists of a 6.7-m3 air-conditioned chamber by means of a split unit of 5.3-kW capacity. The heat recovery module consists of a duct system that is used to reroute the exhaust air from a conditioned chamber to flow through the fin side of a fin-and-tube heat exchanger of crossflow type. At the same time, outside, fresh air is flowing through the tube side of the fin-and-tube heat exchanger. A parametric study is performed to assess the amount of heat that can be recovered by varying the mass flow rates on both the duct and heat exchanger sides. The results show that up to 200 W of power can be saved for an exhaust flow rate of 0.1 kg/s and a fresh, outdoor air flow rate of 0.05 kg/s. Environmentally speaking, this leads to a reduction in production of about 1 tons of CO2 per year when the system operates 24 h/day. From an economic point of view, the system is able to return its price after 1.5 years when it is used 24 h per day during hot days at 196-W thermal recovery, whereas it requires at least 6.3 years when it is used during cold days at a 60-W thermal recovery rate, which, in both cases, represents a duration less than the lifespan of an air conditioner. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Low-Carbon Building and City Strategies in Different Dimensions)
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Review

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43 pages, 112502 KiB  
Review
A Summary Review on Experimental Studies for PCM Building Applications: Towards Advanced Modular Prototype
by Khaireldin Faraj, Mahmoud Khaled, Jalal Faraj, Farouk Hachem and Cathy Castelain
Energies 2022, 15(4), 1459; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15041459 - 16 Feb 2022
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 5481
Abstract
The use of phase change material (PCM) as a thermal energy storage system integrated in new buildings, and as retrofits in old buildings, proved its merit as promising renewable energy source. Heating and cooling building applications of PCM have been studied by plenty [...] Read more.
The use of phase change material (PCM) as a thermal energy storage system integrated in new buildings, and as retrofits in old buildings, proved its merit as promising renewable energy source. Heating and cooling building applications of PCM have been studied by plenty of scientists, globally, on the basis of numerical and experimental analysis. The performed experiments have mainly focused on one application—active or passive—using permanent prototype design for a certain duration and weather condition. The current study is a new review that focuses on two complementary aspects: (1) Reviewing latest studies in PCM domain and assessing the thermal performance of implemented prototypes within the conducted PCM experimental studies, namely, the effect of the design on the number of acceptable variables and possible PCM applications; and (2) suggesting a new, advanced, flexible, and modular prototype designed to enable several applications of PCM to be adapted and combined within the model. It was implied that the new design allows different configurations that are lacking in the literature and serves for future PCM building applications of thermal analysis towards PCM integration optimization, as an attempt for transforming residential compartments into net zero energy buildings. The designed prototype overcomes the deficiencies found in previous reviewed experimental facilities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Low-Carbon Building and City Strategies in Different Dimensions)
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