Energy planning methodology of net-zero energy solar neighborhoods in the Mediterranean basin

The article proposes a simplified methodology to optimize solar energy gains at district level in the Mediterranean area toward the achievement of the net-zero energy district target, to be applicable as well in similar hot climates. The approach includes a wide use of parametric analysis to explore the most impactful aspects of the design of solar net-zero energy districts: single unit shape, building mutual distances, road shape, building orientation, photovoltaics area availability to identify the optimal design solution. Thirty-two different district configurations are explored: results show that in the Mediterranean context, it is possible to reach the net-zero energy district target in several configurations investigated; however, cooling energy requirements can vary up to 20% in the different combinations examined. In a context of high demographic growth and consequently of expected rise of housing demand especially on the southern side of the Mediterranean, the proposed method can be useful in the application of bioclimatic concepts to large scale energy planning and energy policies as well for practitioners and building designers.