A low-tech approach to nZEB dwellings in developing countries - case study Romania

This paper, based on a larger research, focuses on evaluating the feasibility and challenges of implementing the nearly Zero-Energy Building (nZEB) standard on dwellings in Romania. It is proposed that implementing this new set of regulations and national strategies should be context-specific, adapted to several factors which are common to a particular area in regard to the characteristics of housing and dwelling: the culture of dwelling, the dynamics of dwelling (occupancy, maintenance, use), household finances and expenses, demographics, building habits and the construction market and climate considerations. These realities are however a product of long periods of evolution and a result of certain habits. The new paradigm, oriented towards energy efficiency, is in some regards divergent to these. As such, before using advanced technological means for a more energy efficient building, these traditions and habits should be addressed. There should be a focus on the initial stages of the design (regarding the future building) and on the way it is used, which means that the architect and the end-user (the dweller) are central to the process. Initial decisions about the appearance of the building and how it is built (orientation, building materials, internal layout etc.) and involving the future dwellers and their dwelling habits in the process affect the overall energy footprint of the building in a more decisive manner than later technological additions. As a result, a context-specific lowtech approach to energy-efficient dwellings begins to take shape. Rather than being localized, it will be shown that these new strategies can affect much larger areas, even involving shifts in the way human settlements are designed and managed.