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Towards zero energy buildings: lessons learned from the BedZED development

Young, J; (2015) Towards zero energy buildings: lessons learned from the BedZED development. Doctoral thesis , UCL (University College London). Green open access

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Abstract

In order for the UK to meet carbon reduction targets and increased demand for housing from a growing population, houses need to be built that use less energy. Designers have responded by designing low energy buildings but little research has been undertaken on the actual performance of such buildings in use. This study compares the performance in use of 24 dwellings at the Beddington Zero Energy Development (BedZED) designed as a zero energy development. A unique feature is that, for the first time in energy monitoring studies, measurement of dwelling performance in use was undertaken both in the newly built dwellings and dwellings occupied previously by the study's participants. The results show that the dwellings achieved their design temperature during the heating season and that occupants were generally satisfied with winter comfort levels. Energy usage was lower in the new properties than previous dwellings and lower than comparable new dwellings at the time, broadly achieving the Passivhaus standard. The dwellings achieved a good standard of airtightness although there were some reports of condensation. Internal temperatures in the summer months showed a potential to overheat during hot spells and occupants were less satisfied with summer comfort. It is considered that this was partly because occupants were not familiar with how to cool their homes. The study reviewed Energy Performance Certificates issued for BedZED properties sold/rented and found them to be inconsistent and inaccurate. This has implications for the marketability of future low energy homes if not addressed by industry. It also found inconsistency in the application of measurement systems in the various models used.

Type: Thesis (Doctoral)
Title: Towards zero energy buildings: lessons learned from the BedZED development
Event: UCL
Open access status: An open access version is available from UCL Discovery
Language: English
Additional information: Third party copyright material has been removed from ethesis.
UCL classification: UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices
UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > UCL BEAMS
UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > UCL BEAMS > Faculty of the Built Environment
UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > UCL BEAMS > Faculty of the Built Environment > Bartlett School Env, Energy and Resources
URI: https://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/id/eprint/1472436
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