The effect of different users profiles on energy performances of a Nearly Zero Energy Building

In addition to technical characteristics, in the operation and maintenance of buildings the action of users results crucial. Recent studies report that as buildings become more energy efficient, the behavior of occupants plays an increasingly role in consumption. This paper aims to assess the influence of users’ patterns on the energy consumption of a nZEB for residential use. The nZEB is designed in accordance with the definition net zero source energy and the occupants’ behavior is investigated by modifying the occupancy and the modalities of use of equipment, lighting, ventilation, heating and cooling setting. Improving the understanding of occupants’ behavior and quantifying its impact on the use of technologies and on energy performance can help to limit resources consumption and bridge the gap between design stage and utilization phase.