Achieving greater energy efficiency through the transition from Net Zero Energy Buildings to Net Zero Energy Settlements

The transition from NZE buildings to NZE settlements requires the optimum management of the energy loads and resources through the application of solutions for the distribution network, energy storage and micro-grid control on a district level, and through an optimum climatic management of the open spaces. The development and implementation of a comprehensive, cost-effective system for Net Zero Energy (NZE) settlements is composed of innovative solutions for the building envelope, for building energy generation and management, and for energy management at the settlement level. The developed solutions will be implemented in four different demonstration projects throughout the EU, with varying climates and building types, while the results of their implementation will be monitored and analyzed. The aim of the NZE settlements’ development is to achieve a reduction of operational energy usage to an average of 0-20 kWh/m2 per year and the reduction of the investment costs for the development of the system by at least 16% compared to current costs, through the employment of an approach of mass customization that will reduce "balance of system" costs. This research is carried out in the framework of a project called “ZERO PLUS” funded by the EU under the H2020 programme. In this paper, the overview and objectives of the ZERO PLUS project are presented. The case studies and technologies involved are described. The approach that will be followed in order to achieve the project goals is analysed