The Techno-Economic Feasibility of a Net-Zero Energy Retrofit for a Multi-Unit Residential Building in Halifax, Nova Scotia

Abstract

The building sector has a large environmental footprint that contributes to the current global GHG emissions. Implementing energy efficiency measures in the building sector will assist in reducing energy consumption and has the potential for substantial CO2 reductions. There is an increased interest for net-zero energy buildings to reduce the high energy demands associated with buildings. This project investigates the techno-economic feasibility of implementing a net-zero energy retrofit for a MURB in Halifax, Nova Scotia. A MURB was selected and modeled in its current state using the building performance software OpenStudio. Iterations of energy efficiency modifications were implemented until the total annual energy consumption was reduced to a level that would allow for the building to achieve net zero energy status. The building reached net zero energy operation after the addition of 2,280 solar panels, or 47,400 ft2 of solar cells. The economic feasibility was determined using the TCC method.