Study on the Influence of Window-wall Ratio on the Energy Consumption of Nearly Zero Energy Buildings

Abstract

Window-wall ratio (WWR) is one of the key energy-saving design parameters affecting the energy consumption of nearly zero energy building (NZEB) in severe cold regions. The analysis and optimization of WWR is an important way to achieve nearly zero energy consumption. This paper takes one typical NZEB in severe cold area of Shenyang city as model. The influence of different orientations’ WWR on energy consumption of NZEB was studied finally through the simulation method of dual energy consumption influence factors with a single variable, and the simulation software of EnergyPlus. The results showed that: the greater impact of different orientations’ WWR on energy consumption order is east (west) > south > north; the most energy-efficient east (west) WWR for NZEB in severe cold area is between 10%-15%, south WWR is between 10%-22.5%, north WWR should be appropriately reduced when the lighting and ventilation conditions allowed it.