Experiences in countries with hot humid climate and recommendations for Vietnam

Abstract

Developing low energy and zero energy buildings is one of the important solutions that can contribute to enhanced energy savings and energy efficiency, reduced greenhouse gas emissions from building sector in Vietnam. The main objective of this paper was to analyse and assess the studies and application of design and technological solutions to develop low energy and zero energy buildings from countries with hot humid climate, and then provide recommendations for promoting the development of low energy and zero energy buildings in Vietnam. The study results showed that in order to achieve low energy and zero energy buildings, it is necessary to concurrently implement groups of solutions including: (i). Passive design; (ii). Active design; and (iii). Use of on-site renewable energy. On this basis, it was recommended that governmental agencies should update and improve relevant regulations, standards, and technical guidances with the approach of new and advanced design and technological solutions that appropriate to hot humid climate condition in Vietnam. At the same time, it is necessary to develop the roadmap with staged development, starting from energyefficient building at present to low energy or nearly zero energy building, and then zero energy building.

Key words: Low energy building; zero energy building; passive design; active design; renewable energy.