ABSTRACT
We begin by stating the design goal and describing the process that can lead to efficient building designs. It is crucial that the designer have a good intuitive understanding of the important elements of a building and their influence on energy consumption. For this purpose, we discuss the various broad categories of design elements. We then proceed to specific design procedures and energy-efficient recommendations for residential buildings including considerations of glazing, thermal mass and the use of passive solar technologies. Recommendations specific to HVAC systems for commercial buildings are then presented based on the results of previous studies. We then cover in brief several important solar technologies, including water heating, preheating of ventilation air, and photovoltaic (PV) systems. A brief overview of passive and hybrid cooling methods is also provided. Next, we address the issue of uncertainties in simulated building energy predictions and discuss the role of energy benchmarks and rating methods. We then discuss the historical and ongoing development of building energy codes and standards and describe the various compliance pathways. Finally, we provide a broad overview of green or high-performance buildings and describe current efforts to designing, constructing, and operating such buildings.
