Uploaded on 2019-01-26 by Mike Fabrizi

NOTE: The above picture was not taken by me. I got it at: https://www.bdcnetwork.com/regulations-demand-will-accelerate-revenue-zero-energy-buildings-according-study The above picture shows infrastructure at the building scale. Photovoltaic cells, advanced insulation, and automated systems are used here to create a near-zero energy building. By this it is meant that the building is nearly self-sustaining, needing little input from the energy grid. In fact, under some conditions (e.g., bright, sunny days) it may generate surplus electricity, which can either be sold back to the local power company or stored via battery systems for use later. Note the collection of physical materials as well as the software and automation required to operate and maintain this energy efficient infrastructure. Other uses here can be to use some of the energy in the photovoltaic cells above the parking lot to re-charge electric vehicles, such as commuter buses or electric scooters or bicycles. Hence, these vehicles can be made ready for the afternoon commute during the workday.