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Onsite generation technologies are a fundamental feature in a zero energy house 

Systems

Once the fundamentals of the site, building envelope and considerations such as building orientation have been optimised, the systems in a house present an important opportunity. Onsite generation technologies are a fundamental feature in a zero energy house. Energy efficiency measures will reduce the size of required energy generation systems, and as such, should always be implemented first.

Our philosophy is to a) minimise the number of systems and b) keep the systems that are in place as simple as possible. This helps to ensure the most cost effective outcome, ongoing usability and minimises the maintenance and cost for the life of the house.

The Bedzed development in the UK showing photovoltaic and passive ventilation cowls. (Image | Flickr user:telex4)

Design Opportunities Matrix

The matrix below shows the key design considerations related to the systems in the left column and the project goals listed along the top. The coloured boxes indicate the goals that the design considerations contribute towards.The matrix is colour coded as follows:

  •  Indicates that the design feature has a positive effect on the goal
  •  Indicates that the design feature has a negative effect on the goal
  •  Indicates that the design feature can have a negative or positive effect on the goal

The sections of the website listed in the top menu bar are evolving and details on the design initiatives will be added to these sections as we develop the design and build the house. 

 
  Project Goals
Design Feature Energy Efficiency & GHG Low Embodied Energy Water Conservation Health & Comfort Waste Minimisation Low Pollutant Emissions Durability

Passive ventilation [more]

  • Minimise energy requirement by using passive rather than active ventilation.
              

Exhaust for kitchen and bathroom [more]

  • Humidity controlled mechanical ventilation. Remove moist air from the building to maintain a healthy internal environment.
              

Energy metering [more]

  • Meter household supply and main household circuits to assist in energy monitoring and detection of unusually high energy loads
              

Lighting [more]

  • Use of energy efficiency fluorescent luminaires or LEDs in preference to other luminaires for the majority of areas. Reduces cost, waste and greenhouse gas emissions from grid electricity
              

Grid connected photovoltaic system [more] [details]

  • Photovoltaic system to allow net zero energy use over a year.
  • Energy to be exported to the grid at times when generation exceeds local demand. Reduces and offsets use of grid electricity and associated emissions
  • Reduce exposure to rising electricity costs
              

Solar hot water system [more]

  • Solar water heating system for domestic hot water, minimising energy costs, electricity use and greenhouse gas emissions
  • Reduce exposure against rising electricity costs
              

Electric car charging [more]

  • Electric car charging facilities in garage to reduce the emissions from combustion of fossil fuels
  • Increased self sufficiency and reduced exposure to rising energy costs
             

Water metering [more]

  • Include metering for hot and cold water uses to assist in water monitoring and leaks
  • Can assist in energy conservation by allowing users to monitor their high hot water usage
              

Rainwater harvesting and storage [more]

  • Rainwater harvesting and storage for toilet flushing and irrigation. Reduces the use of potable water and flow of wastewater to the sewer
              

Provision for grey water treatment and reuse [more]

  • Provide separate greywater and blackwater drainage from the building to allow for future greywater treatment and reuse.
  • Reduces the use of potable water and flow of wastewater to the sewer