New report on zero emission buildings

We are excited to announce the release of the new BUILD_ME report, which introduces a groundbreaking methodology to determine adequate requirements for Zero Emission Buildings (ZEB) in Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon. This methodology is designed to be comparable with a cost-optimal, climate-neutral energy system.  

The report provides an overview of various international and European definitions related to zero energy buildings, highlighting different boundary conditions and targets. It then provides a high-level description of the current built environment and status of energy-efficient buildings in the BUILD_ME countries. The findings indicate that these countries are will in the preliminary stages necessary to promote adapted ZEB approaches.  

Key highlights of the report include:  

• Methodology – A detailed explanation of the methodology used to determine the adapted standard of ZEB, considering specific local conditions in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.  

• Calculations for reference buildings – Calculations for typical new buildings in Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon consider the local financial conditions and suggest introducing Zero Emission Ready Buildings (ZERB), which are affordable and prevent possible lock-in effects of low-efficiency measures.  

• ZERB specifications – Identified ZERB measures are set out in great details, resulting in buildings that offer significantly lower global costs (by 15% to 30%) compared to common practices for new buildings and allow for a reduction in final energy demand (electricity) by up to 90%.  

• Investment and payback – The required additional investments of the ZERBs defined in the report are typically around 5%, with an expected payback period of 3 years.  

• Sustainable materials – The report recommends the use of sustainable materials for ZERBs, such as natural refrigerants and the waiver of cement products wherever possible, without significant increases in total costs.  

In summary, the report provides a comprehensive and practical approach to achieving Zero Emission Buildings, showing the potential for Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon to reduce energy demand and costs while promoting sustainable building practices.  

Click the link below for the full report!