Net ZEB Case Studies - Modeling, Design, and Optimization of Net-Zero Energy Buildings - page 355

7.2.2.1 Design Objectives
The design objectives of the house were to achieve near-net-zero energy
performance, low environmental impact (i.e., materials that are non-toxic
and have low volatile organic compound emissions), and a comfortable and
healthy indoor environment. The design team also sought to demonstrate
innovative integrated and low-cost solar and energy storage technologies.
Finally, a low overall house cost was important because ÉcoTerra is a
demonstration and the designers wanted to ensure that mass production of
the house (or similar houses) for the middle class would be feasible.
7.2.2.2 Design Team and Design Process
The design team consisted of about 10 experts and was led by an
architect-engineer team. The design process is summarized in Figure 7.9 .
Initially, once the design objectives were established, the lead energy
systems engineer and researcher, Dr. Andreas Athienitis from Concordia
University, provided some basic guidelines for the major geometrical and
construction properties of the house to the architect, Masa Noguchi.
Because of the emphasis on passive solar heating, an aspect ratio of about
1.3, two stories, and a south-facing window-to-wall area ratio of about 40%.