Topic outline

  • Defining a Zero Energy Building

    Credits: 2 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    This course addresses the criteria which defines: What is a zero energy consumption building. A net zero-energy building (ZEB) is a residential or commercial building with greatly reduced energy needs, through efficiency gains such that the balance of energy needs can be supplied with renewable technologies. Despite the excitement over the phrase “zero energy,” we lack a common definition, or even a common understanding, of what it means.

    Topics:

    In this course, we use a sample of current generation, low-energy buildings to explore the concept of zero energy:
    • Introduction to Zero Energy Buildings
    • what the concept of zero energy means
    • why a clear and measurable definition is needed
    • how we have progressed toward the ZEB goal
    • Grid Connectability
    • Definitions and Examples of Zero Energy Structures
    • Cost Benefits

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course:
    Click Here:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.
         NOTE: After the exam is completed, you will need to return to this page, in order to print (download) the certificate of completion.

    Print the Certificate of Completion


    Intended Audience: electrical, mechanical, civil, energy, chemical, environmental, construction,and industrial engineers. However, this course could appeal to engineers of other disciplines as well.
    Publication Source: US Dept. of Energy

    Donald Parnell, PE
    • Topic 1