Advanced nZEB Dwelling – Nearly Zero-Energy Building
An advanced nZEB dwelling is a building with very high energy performance, where the minimal amount of energy required comes predominantly from renewable sources, either generated on-site or nearby.
Three Fundamental Principles
1. High-performance thermal envelope – walls, roof, foundation, and windows are highly insulated (with low U-values), minimizing heat losses in winter and heat gains in summer.
2. High airtightness – reduction of uncontrolled air infiltration, usually combined with mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, so that comfort is maintained without unnecessary energy losses through ventilation.
3. Renewable energy sources – a significant share of the energy consumed (heating, hot water, and sometimes electricity) is covered through the use of photovoltaic panels, heat pumps, solar thermal collectors, biomass, etc.
Key Characteristics
- Very low energy consumption;
- High share of renewable energy use;
- Integrated technologies for maximum energy efficiency;
- High airtightness;
- High energy-performance building envelope.
Direct Benefits
- Annual balance between energy consumed and energy produced, achieving nearly zero net energy consumption;
- Greater energy independence;
- Lower long-term energy costs;
- Minimal environmental impact.