One of the first steps towards achieving net zero energy is optimizing the design of the building. With the combination of climate responsive design and passive techniques, the energy consumption of the building can be reduced considerably.
A climate-responsive building design reflects the weather conditions in the precise area where the building is constructed. The design utilizes data on the region’s weather patterns and accounts for factors like seasonality, intensity of the sun, wind, rainfall and humidity.
Passive design maximises the use of ‘natural’ sources of heating, cooling and ventilation to create comfortable conditions inside buildings. It harnesses environmental conditions such as solar radiation, cool night air and air pressure differences to drive the internal environment.