Analysis of System Strategies Targeting Near-Term Building America Energy-Performance Goals for New Single-Family Homes: FY 2004 Fourth-Quarter Building America Milestone Report

The Building America residential systems research project uses an analysis-based system research approach to (1) Identify research priorities, (2) Identify technology gaps and opportunities, (3) Establish a consistent basis to track research progress, (4) Increase the cost effectiveness of research investments by identifying system solutions that are most likely to succeed as the initial targetsfor residential system research projects. This report describes the technical approach used by Building America to determine the most cost effective pathways to achieve whole-house energy savings goals. The report provides an overview of design/technology strategies leading to net zero energy buildings as the basis for analysis of future residential system performance. The analysis approach isdemonstrated by providing an initial comparison of the least-cost options required to achieve 40% energy savings in five climate zones. The preliminary results from this study will be validated against field studies and updated on an annual basis to reflect best available residential system cost/performance data from ongoing Building America research activities.