A Case Study-Based Framework Integrating Simulation, Policy, and Technology for nZEB Retrofits in Taiwan’s Office Buildings

Ruey-Lung Hwang and Hung-Chi Chiu ()
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Ruey-Lung Hwang: Department of Industrial Technology Education, National Kaohsiung Normal University, Kaohsiung 824004, Taiwan
Hung-Chi Chiu: Department of Industrial Technology Education, National Kaohsiung Normal University, Kaohsiung 824004, Taiwan

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 14, 1-19

Abstract: Nearly zero-energy buildings (nZEBs) are central to global carbon reduction strategies, and Taiwan is actively promoting their adoption through building energy performance labeling, particularly in the retrofit of existing buildings. Under Taiwan’s nZEB framework, qualification requires both an A + energy performance label and over 50% energy savings from retrofit technologies. This study proposes an integrated assessment framework for retrofitting small- to medium-sized office buildings into nZEBs, incorporating diagnostics, technical evaluation, policy alignment, and resource integration. A case study of a bank branch in Kaohsiung involved on-site energy monitoring and EnergyPlus V22.2 simulations to calibrate and assess the retrofit impacts. Lighting improvements and two HVAC scenarios—upgrading the existing fan coil unit (FCU) system and adopting a completely new variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system—were evaluated. The FCU and VRF scenarios reduced the energy use intensity from 141.3 to 82.9 and 72.9 kWh/m 2 ·yr, respectively. Combined with rooftop photovoltaics and green power procurement, both scenarios met Taiwan’s nZEB criteria. The proposed framework demonstrates practical and scalable strategies for decarbonizing existing office buildings, supporting Taiwan’s 2050 net-zero target.

Keywords: nearly zero energy building; building retrofit; building energy efficiency rating; renewable energy integration; energy efficiency measures (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: 2025
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