An information sharing strategy based on linked data for net zero energy buildings and clusters

Buildings now incorporate increasing levels of renewable energy to the point where net zero energy buildings (NetZEBs) and net zero energy clusters (NetZECs) have the potential to become widely used. Information exchange among stakeholders is essential to enable energy sharing among buildings that form a NetZECs. However, traditional, centralised energy management usually places emphasis on the supply side and does not address data exchange among individual stakeholders. This paper proposes an information sharing strategy based on linked data for improved management of NetZEBs and NetZECs. This strategy systematically integrates stakeholders' engagement by using energy performance indicators as information carriers and linked data as engagement channels. A case study proves the advantages of the developed strategy for improving the energy balance at individual building level, building cluster level, and community level. It is found that the strategy could help achieve NetZEBs and NetZECs through empowering stakeholders' interaction and information sharing.