Energy and Ecological Concept of a Zero-Emission Building Using Renewable Energy Sources—Case Study in Poland

Anna Barwińska-Małajowicz, Marian Banaś, Teresa Piecuch, Radosław Pyrek (), Krzysztof Szczotka and Jakub Szymiczek
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Anna Barwińska-Małajowicz: Department of Economics and International Economic Relations, Institute of Economics and Finance, University of Rzeszow, 35-601 Rzeszów, Poland
Marian Banaś: Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Robotics, Department of Power Systems and Environmental Protection Facilities, AGH University of Science and Technology, 30-059 Kraków, Poland
Teresa Piecuch: Faculty of Management, Department of Enterprise Management, Rzeszow University of Technology, 35-959 Rzeszów, Poland
Radosław Pyrek: Department of Economics and International Economic Relations, Institute of Economics and Finance, University of Rzeszow, 35-601 Rzeszów, Poland
Krzysztof Szczotka: Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Robotics, Department of Power Systems and Environmental Protection Facilities, AGH University of Science and Technology, 30-059 Kraków, Poland
Jakub Szymiczek: Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Robotics, Department of Power Systems and Environmental Protection Facilities, AGH University of Science and Technology, 30-059 Kraków, Poland

Energies, 2024, vol. 17, issue 23, 1-23

Abstract: Zero-emission buildings, which do not emit CO 2 or other greenhouse gases throughout their entire life cycle, play a crucial role in sustainable development and the fight against climate change. Achieving carbon neutrality in construction requires considering emissions associated with material production, construction, operation, as well as demolition and disposal. These buildings utilize energy-efficient technologies, renewable energy sources, and low-carbon materials, minimizing their environmental impact. The building sector accounts for a significant percentage of global greenhouse gas emissions, making it a key area for climate action. In Poland, where aging and energy-inefficient buildings prevail, the need for a transition towards zero-emission buildings is particularly urgent. This paper assesses the feasibility and hurdles of retrofitting existing buildings to achieve zero emissions by utilizing renewable energy systems like solar photovoltaic and heat pump technologies. The publication discusses the technical, economic, and legal aspects of this transformation, with particular emphasis on the Polish context and available support programs. The purpose of this publication is to disseminate practical knowledge and foster innovation among architects, investors, and decision-makers engaged in the development of a sustainable built environment. A key example is Net Zero Energy Buildings (NZEBs), which generate as much energy as they consume over a year through technologies such as photovoltaic panels, solar collectors, and heat pumps. NZEBs combine effective insulation, energy-efficient systems, and smart energy management to minimize consumption, and may even produce excess energy that feeds back into the grid. Despite challenges in construction and maintenance, the increasing adoption of zero-emission and NZEBs worldwide reflects their long-term ecological, economic, and health benefits. The focus of this publication is to analyze the potential for transforming standard buildings, as defined by current regulations, into zero-emission buildings powered entirely by renewable energy sources. This case study analyzes the energy potential of a residential building located in Krakow, Poland. The building’s energy efficiency potential was assessed through computer simulations using Audytor OZC software (version 7.0 Pro, Sankom), taking into account local climate conditions and building standards. The study analyzed the impact of various strategies, such as upgrading thermal insulation, using energy-efficient windows, and installing photovoltaic panels, on energy consumption and CO 2 emissions.

Keywords: zero-emission buildings; net-zero energy buildings; renewable energy sources; energy efficiency; heat pump; photovoltaics (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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