Study on strategies for zero energy home design in Taiwan - A case study of a residential house in Yunlin

In Taiwan, the energy structure relies mainly on thermal power and other renewable energy sources. However, a high number of these energy sources are imported. The data indicate the rate of energy importation has increased to 99.4% over the past 20 years. The high population density and geographical conditions in Taiwan are not conducive to large-scale renewable energy development. Therefore, in Taiwan, developing zero-energy homes (ZEHs) is a crucial strategy for renewable energy use. In addition, according to IEA Key World Energy Statistics, the average CO₂ emission per person in Taiwan is 11.31 ton-CO₂, which is high compared with those of OECD countries such as Japan, Finland, Norway, and Denmark. Moreover, the CO₂ emission of the construction industry accounts for approximately 30% of the total CO₂ emission in Taiwan. Although Taiwan is not a member of the OECD, Taiwan is responsible for CO₂ reduction. Therefore, determining how to eliminate carbon emission and developing ZEHs are crucial objectives in Taiwan. A detached house in Yunlin, located in Southern Taiwan on the Tropic of Cancer, was used as the study case. Energy-efficient design and renewable energy generation were studied. A new ZEH design is proposed, and an economic analysis and policy suggestions are provided.