scope:

ABSTRACT

The challenges of Zero Energy Buildings (ZEB) veil opportunities to develop emerging efforts surrounding occupant behavior. ZEB, with low-energy demand and advanced technology can contribute to a knowledge base further assisting practitioners (owners/managers) with structure and tools to actively influence building operations. Occupant Orientation (O2) addresses knowledge, coaching, training, and incentives as methods of encouraging and realizing changes in occupant behaviors which positively affect building performance. O2 Framework will help owners and operators integrate occupants as positive contributors in High Performance Buildings. The proposed O2 Framework is offered as an example to start discussions about appropriate structure and tools for occupant integration in ZEB and other building stock, improving building performance across the board.