Addressing Overheating Risk in Zero Energy Buildings

Abstract

Buildings in Europe represent a significant portion of energy use, necessitating an optimal balance between thermal comfort and efficiency. BedZED set a pioneering example of zero energy design in the early 2000s, yet recent assessments reveal limitations in maintaining its performance over time. This study employs simulation models to examine BedZED’s current and future performance, investigating its response to targeted interventions aimed at enhancing thermal comfort, providing insights for adapting older energy-efficient designs to evolving climate and energy needs. The findings demonstrate that adding a sunspace increases temperatures, though higher airtightness values did somewhat reduce this effect. Looser infiltration reduced overheating but did not meet TM52 criteria without the removal of the sunspace. Solar control and shading emerged as effective solutions, along with reduced glazing and roof-level ventilation, especially under future climate scenarios.