Engineering Skills and Knowledge Related to nZEB Construction

Abstract

—The buildings sector is the largest energy-demanding and polluting sector in the global economy. The implementation of nearly Zero Energy Buildings contributes to reducing energy use and climate change. To support this construction there is a need for educating professionals with the required skills and competencies on energy-efficient buildings. This paper reports on the necessary knowledge to be acquired by engineers to deliver nZEB projects. Here, we identify the entire set of nZEB features described by the European Commission through the EPBD and highlight the concepts to be imparted for each of these technical features. We also present a methodology for analysing nZEB content in university curriculum and contributes to the continuing sustainability education discourse. Thus, it is hoped this study will inform education planners and researchers for gaining knowledge on nZEB teaching.