Construction of Carbon Emission Evaluation Methods and Indicators for Low-Carbon Technologies in Buildings

Abstract: To manage decarbonization in the building sector, this study defines the boundary of carbon emission reduction accounting for low-carbon technology application as the building operation stage and throughout the life cycle of the technology application; constructs a carbon emission reduction efficiency indicator including operational carbon intensity, embodied carbon payback time and carbon emission reduction efficiency, and form a suitability evaluation system with low-carbon technologies. The application of four low-carbon technologies was simulated using a real building. Carbon emission reduction evaluation indicators were calculated, and the application effects were comprehensively evaluated and compared. Low-carbon technology systems corresponding to the building characteristics of Chongqing were obtained, including the replacement of energy-efficient lamps, roof photovoltaics and air source heat pump. This comprehensive indicator and evaluation system could be used for the calculation of carbon emission reductions, comparison of comprehensive effects and determination of the carbon trading amounts of buildings and low-carbon technologies. By analyzing different indicators for different stages, objects and usage demands, the application recommendations of carbon reduction indicators applicable to reality were proposed. The findings can assist policymakers in formulating energy policies related to the management of decarbonization in the buildings sector.