
Solar-powered buildings should be less than 10 floors to meet net-zero targets, study says

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Solar-powered buildings should be less than 10 floors to meet net-zero targets, study says
04 September 2023
A research from University of Toronto suggests capping solar-powered buildings at 10 floors for net-zero energy success.
Editorial Team
The research has focused on high-rise nearly zero-energy buildings (NZEBs), aiming to meet energy needs via renewables. Most net-zero buildings are low-rise; tall NZEBs face difficulties due to limited space for solar systems.
The study assessed 32 European NZEBs, finding few with over five stories. Researchers used energy use intensity (EUI) and explored solar setups (photovoltaics - PV and photovoltaic-thermal technologies - PVT) across 16 North American cities, recognising practical limitations in panel placement. Despite challenges, the study emphasises the role of thoughtful design and technology integration for sustainable solar-powered high-rise buildings.
Themes
Nearly zero-energy buildings
Energy efficiency technologies and solutions
Renewable Energy Sources (RES)