Net Positive Energy Homes: Maximizing Performance Using Advanced Software Tools

Authors

  • Bion Howard Building Environmental Science and Technology

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.13052/dgaej2156-3306.2344

Abstract

This article explores the art of the possible in advanced high per-
formance homes, reviewing how builders and designers can be guided
towards maximum potential using 21st century software tools to pro-
totype net-positive energy home designs. Also reviewed in this article
are case studies of home designs analyzed using the advanced computer
software, by the authors’ consulting practice.
Included is a discussion of features and capabilities of popular
software tools: Energy-10™ V1.8 (Author: National Renewable Energy
Laboratory); EnergyGauge USA™ (Author: Florida Solar Energy Cen-
ter); and REM-Design™ (Author: Architectural Energy Corporation).

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Author Biography

Bion Howard, Building Environmental Science and Technology

Bion Howard via his consulting practice, Building Environmental
Science and Technology (B.E.S.T.), provides technical assistance and
training on green building including energy efficiency, indoor envi-
ronmental quality, and renewable energy system implementation in
buildings. Bion Howard’s prior service includes the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (helped design EnergyStar Homes program); Alli-
ance to Save Energy (Senior Program Manager—Buildings), and the
National Association of Home Builders Research Center (Senior Energy
Analyst). Mr. Howard is a member of ASHRAE, American Solar Energy
Society (life member), and Residential Energy Services Network (serves
on Standing Technical Committee for HERS ratings). In the U.S. Green
Building Council, he serves on the Energy and Atmosphere Technical
Advisory Group (EA TAG). Mr. Howard holds a BA and Masters from
the University of Wisconsin at Green Bay in environmental studies.

References

“Solar-Design Tools for Green Building,” Special Solar Energy and Efficiency Issue, Spring

, Home Energy, Berkeley, CA

“Software Secrets,” Column—Quarterly, 2000—2005, Home Energy, Berkeley, CA

“Whole Building Design Approaches and Useful Tools for Implementing Energy Effi-

ciency,” Energy2001, June 2001. Kansas City, MO.

“Your Computer as a Green Building Resource,” American Institute of Architects (AIA)

National Convention, Dallas, TX. May 1999.

“Advances in Passive Solar Design Tools,” 1992. Proceedings of Thermal Performance

of the Exterior Envelopes of Buildings V, DOE/ASHRAE Conference, ASHRAE,

Atlanta, GA.

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Published

2008-10-22

How to Cite

Howard, B. . (2008). Net Positive Energy Homes: Maximizing Performance Using Advanced Software Tools. Distributed Generation &Amp; Alternative Energy Journal, 23(4), 64–80. https://doi.org/10.13052/dgaej2156-3306.2344

Issue

2008: Vol 23 Iss 4

Section

Articles