Low-energy sustainable building design is not just the result of applying one or more isolated technologies. Rather, it is an integrated whole-building process that requires advocacy and action on the part of the design team throughout the entire project development process. This course discusses what low-energy design means, specific strategies to be considered, when and where to apply these strategies, and how to evaluate their cost effectiveness.

Topics: Selecting energy-saving strategies appropriate for the building type Integrating low-energy concepts into the design process Reducing cooling loads by eliminating undesirable solar heat gain. Reducing heating loads by using desirable solar heat gain. Using natural light as a substitute for (or complement to) electrical lighting Using natural ventilation Using more efficient heating and cooling equipment to satisfy reduced loads Using computerized building control systems Rank-ordering design technologies Benefitting from multiple use Learning from case studies.

Intended Audience: civil, construction, mechanical, and electrical engineers concerned with designing and constructing energy-efficient buildings.

 Publication Source: US Dept. of Energy.