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Energy Efficiency in Building and Energy Balance

A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Energy Sustainability".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 December 2023) | Viewed by 8457

Special Issue Editor

Department of Electrical Engineering, Dong-A University, Busan 49315, Republic of Korea
Interests: sustainable development; building physics; building energy management system; energy system; energy security; power balance; energy conversion; artificial intelligence
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

With the development of technologies related to distributed energy resources, ICT, and artificial intelligence, buildings have become energy prosumers; not only consumers, but also producers. The process of energy conversion and energy efficiency in buildings has become more important. Different methods for balancing energy supply and demand in buildings in sustainable and efficient ways should be researched.

To achieve a more sustainable and efficient building from an energy point of view, there are many complex challenges in analyzing the energy balance of the building, installing energy infra and energy management systems, implementing proper algorithms, and ensuring users’ comfort in a building. In response to such challenges, it is necessary to investigate building physics, emerging technologies in buildings, building energy balance assessment, techno-socio-economic analysis of the building, and related technologies.

This Special Issue will target diverse prospects in the energy efficiency in building and energy balance. This issue covers global, regional, national, and local topics and integrates social, economic, technical, and environmental approaches.

The topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

  • Energy efficiency in buildings;
  • Energy conversion in buildings;
  • Energy assessment indicators in buildings;
  • Socio-economic analysis of buildings;
  • Techno-economic analysis of buildings;
  • Sustainable energy supply and infrastructure in buildings;
  • Renewable energy supply and infrastructure in buildings;
  • The resilience of the energy supply and infrastructure in buildings;
  • Building energy management system and algorithm;
  • Sustainable energy infrastructure with renewable energy;
  • Policy, regulation, and management for buildings;
  • Global, regional, national, or local case study of energy efficiency in buildings;
  • Cyber-physical modeling of buildings and their sub-systems;
  • Emerging issues on energy efficiency and energy balance in buildings.

We will accept original research, case studies, and review articles on these topics.

Dr. Herie Park
Guest Editor

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. Sustainability 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 2400 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

  • energy efficiency
  • energy conversion
  • building physics
  • building energy management system
  • energy balance

Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

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24 pages, 1536 KiB  
Article
A Study for the Improvement of the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) System in Turkey
by Didem Gunes Yilmaz and Fatma Cesur
Sustainability 2023, 15(19), 14074; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151914074 - 22 Sep 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1079
Abstract
This study aims to examine the current status of Turkey’s energy consumption and energy performance system and draw improvements. To this aim, this study adopted a qualitative research method. A literature review was conducted regarding the problems related to the EPC system. Following [...] Read more.
This study aims to examine the current status of Turkey’s energy consumption and energy performance system and draw improvements. To this aim, this study adopted a qualitative research method. A literature review was conducted regarding the problems related to the EPC system. Following this, a series of research questions were derived, and answers were sought through expert group interviews. The problems were categorized into three headings: the EPC system and calculation problems, problems in the regulation and inspection process and, finally, the perspective on the construction industry to the EPC system is examined in the case of Turkey. Deficiencies in the rating system and calculation, regulation and inspection, and perspective of the EPC system in Turkey were identified. Suggestions for the development of EPC in Turkey were made to make it comparable with the systems in EU countries. As one of the outcomes of the study, Turkey should focus on the use of renewable energy, taking into account its geographical advantage. In addition, a more detailed micro-zoning that focuses on regional differences should be carried out, and the authorities should introduce a better control mechanism for the EPC system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Efficiency in Building and Energy Balance)
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16 pages, 4388 KiB  
Article
Optimum Design of an Electric Vehicle Charging Station Using a Renewable Power Generation System in South Korea
by Jieun Ihm, Bilal Amghar, Sejin Chun and Herie Park
Sustainability 2023, 15(13), 9931; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15139931 - 21 Jun 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2555
Abstract
In the context of global warming and fossil fuel depletion, electric vehicles (EVs) have become increasingly popular for reducing both carbon emissions and fossil fuel consumption. However, as the demand for EV charging power rises along with the expansion of EVs, conventional power [...] Read more.
In the context of global warming and fossil fuel depletion, electric vehicles (EVs) have become increasingly popular for reducing both carbon emissions and fossil fuel consumption. However, as the demand for EV charging power rises along with the expansion of EVs, conventional power plants require more fuel, and carbon emissions increase. This suggests that the goal of promoting EV adoption to mitigate climate change and reduce reliance on fossil fuels may face significant challenges. Therefore, there is a need to adopt renewable energy generation for EV charging stations to maximize the effectiveness of EV distribution in an eco-friendly way. This paper aims to propose an optimal renewable energy generation system for an EV charging station, with a specific focus on the use of an actual load profile for the station, the consideration of carbon emissions and economic evaluation, and the study of a specific case location in Korea. As a case study, an EV charging station in Korea was selected, and its renewable energy fractions (REF) of 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% were considered for comparison of carbon emissions and economic evaluation with the help of HOMER software. In addition, the system with 25% REF was analyzed to find the best operating strategy considering the climate characteristics of the case site. The results show that the system configuration of PV/ESS is the most economical among all the REF cases, including PV, WT, and ESS, due to the meteorological characteristics of the site, and that the system with REF below 25% is the most optimal in economic terms and carbon emissions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Efficiency in Building and Energy Balance)
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15 pages, 1892 KiB  
Article
Effect of a Material Based on Date Palm Fibers on the Thermal Behavior of a Residential Building in the Atlantic Climate of Morocco
by Mhaijiba Belhous, Mustapha Boumhaout, Soufiane Oukach and Hassan Hamdi
Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6314; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076314 - 06 Apr 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1456
Abstract
The potential of natural materials is becoming more and more important as concerns about the environmental impact and energy efficiency of the construction sector grow. Incorporating waste from fiber sub-products seems like a wise choice, in line with the circular economy model. Despite [...] Read more.
The potential of natural materials is becoming more and more important as concerns about the environmental impact and energy efficiency of the construction sector grow. Incorporating waste from fiber sub-products seems like a wise choice, in line with the circular economy model. Despite the fact that date palm materials have been extensively researched and developed for use in modern buildings, the potential of using date palm fibers has not been widely explored. This research intends to examine how date palm fibers thermal insulation affects a building’s thermal efficiency in an Atlantic climate. An analysis using a numerical simulation using the TRNSYS software is conducted to determine the effect of this passive approach on cooling/heating loads and indoor comfort. This technique is measured against a hypothetical reference case of homemade traditional building materials without thermal insulation. The results show that insulation with date palm fiber materials has a significant effect on the indoor air temperature and the cooling and heating loads of the house. In comparison to the reference case, the studied house achieves better comfort conditions when thermal insulation is adopted since the indoor air temperature is increased by up to 3 °C in winter and decreased by up to 5 °C in summer. In addition, annual cooling and heating requirements can be reduced by 25% and 18%, respectively, by insulating the roof and walls with date palm fiber materials. On the other hand, it allows financial savings and a reduction in CO2 emissions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Efficiency in Building and Energy Balance)
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22 pages, 19846 KiB  
Article
The Impact of V2G Charging/Discharging Strategy on the Microgrid Environment Considering Stochastic Methods
by Sheeraz Iqbal, Salman Habib, Muhammad Ali, Aqib Shafiq, Anis ur Rehman, Emad M. Ahmed, Tahir Khurshaid and Salah Kamel
Sustainability 2022, 14(20), 13211; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142013211 - 14 Oct 2022
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2172
Abstract
Although electric vehicles (EVs) play a vital role in realizing remarkable features, however, the integration of a huge number of EVs leads to grid congestion as well. As a result, uncontrolled charging might give rise to undervoltage and complex congestion in the electric [...] Read more.
Although electric vehicles (EVs) play a vital role in realizing remarkable features, however, the integration of a huge number of EVs leads to grid congestion as well. As a result, uncontrolled charging might give rise to undervoltage and complex congestion in the electric grid. The reasons for the uncontrolled charging of EVs have been investigated in the recent past to mitigate the effects thereof. It is very challenging to achieve controlled charging due to different constraints at the customer end; therefore, it is better to take the benefits of power prediction schemes for the charging and discharging of EVs. The power prediction scheme is based on a practical power forecast system that exploits the needs of various patterns, and the current research focuses on considering users’ demands. The primary objective of this study is to develop an effective and efficient coordination system for the charging and discharging of EVs by exploiting a smart algorithm that intelligently tackles the possible difficulties to attain optimum power requirements. In this context, a model is proposed based on stochastic methods for analyzing the impact of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) charging and discharging in the microgrid environment. A Markov model is used to simulate the use of EVs. This method works well with the Markov model because of its ability to adjust to random changes. When considering an EV, its erratic travel patterns suggest a string of events that resemble a stochastic process. The proposed model ensures that high power requirements are met during peak hours in a cost-effective manner. In simpler words, the promising features of the proposed scheme are to meet electricity/power demands, monitoring and the efficient forecasting of power. The outcomes revealed an effective power system, EV scheduling, and power supply without compromising the electric vehicle’s presentation of the EV owner’s tour schedule. In terms of comprehensiveness, the developed algorithm exhibits a significant improvement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Efficiency in Building and Energy Balance)
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15 pages, 4374 KiB  
Case Report
Spatial Model for Energy Consumption of LEED-Certified Buildings
by Jonghoon Kim, Soo-Young Moon and Daehee Jang
Sustainability 2023, 15(22), 16097; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152216097 - 20 Nov 2023
Viewed by 547
Abstract
In this research endeavor, we undertook a comprehensive examination of the factors influencing the energy consumption of LEED-certified buildings, employing both a general linear regression model and a spatial delayed regression model. Gaining a profound understanding of energy utilization patterns within LEED-certified structures [...] Read more.
In this research endeavor, we undertook a comprehensive examination of the factors influencing the energy consumption of LEED-certified buildings, employing both a general linear regression model and a spatial delayed regression model. Gaining a profound understanding of energy utilization patterns within LEED-certified structures can significantly contribute to advancing eco-friendly construction practices. Our investigation draws upon data from a 2010 study conducted at the University of Wisconsin—Madison (UW), encompassing various independent variables, such as temperature, that exhibit some degree of correlation with energy consumption in LEED-certified buildings. The principal objective of this study is twofold: firstly, to ascertain the significance of specific exogenous variables, notably temperature, and secondly, to explore the impact of spatial factors, such as function and location, on energy usage. Our research framework encompasses meticulous data collection and rigorous analysis, culminating in the presentation and discussion of our findings. Notably, our study unveils intriguing insights. Contrary to conventional assumptions, we discovered that the energy consumption of LEED-certified buildings does not exhibit a robust linear association with average annual temperature, the count of power plants within a 50 mile radius, or the LEED rating itself. However, our spatial regression models unveil a compelling narrative: the geographic distribution and functional diversity of distinct LEED buildings wield discernible influence over energy consumption patterns. The implications of our research resonate profoundly in the realm of LEED-certified building design and construction. Architects, builders, and stakeholders should consider the nuanced interplay of spatial variables and geographical positioning in the pursuit of optimal energy efficiency. Moreover, our findings stimulate further inquiry in this field, paving the way for future investigations aimed at refining sustainable building practices and enhancing our understanding of energy consumption within LEED-certified structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Efficiency in Building and Energy Balance)
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