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• Daylighting: South-facing windows provide some natural light.
• Passive Heating: Limited passive heating potential due to minimal south-facing glazing and potential shading by trees.
• Passive Cooling: Overhangs exist above south-facing windows, potentially providing some shade during summer months.

Areas for Improvement:

• Insulation: Upgrading attic and wall insulation can significantly reduce heating and cooling loads.
• Glazing: Replacing windows with high-performance, double-paned windows with low-e coatings can improve thermal performance.
• Daylighting: Strategically placed skylights or strategically sized windows on the north side can introduce more natural light, reducing reliance on artificial lighting.
• Passive Heating: South-facing windows with thermal mass elements like dark tile flooring can capture solar heat in the winter.

c) Proposed Energy Efficiency Measures:

1. Passive Measure: Attic Insulation Upgrade

• Technical Justification: Adding insulation to the attic is one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce heat transfer. Upgrading from R-13 to R-38 insulation in the Texas climate can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs.

2. Active Measure: Smart Thermostat

• Technical Justification: A smart thermostat allows for programmable temperature control, reducing energy consumption during unoccupied periods. Smart thermostats can also learn user habits and optimize heating/cooling schedules.

d) Extent and Value of Energy Substitution

Estimated Savings:

• Attic Insulation Upgrade (R-13 to R-38): 15-20% reduction in heating and cooling costs (Source: Department of Energy)
• Smart Thermostat: Up to 10% reduction in heating and cooling costs (Source: Energy Star)

Combined Potential Savings: 25-30% reduction in annual energy consumption for heating and cooling.

e) Quantify Energy and Carbon Savings, Cost-Benefit Analysis

Energy Savings:

Assuming an annual energy bill of $2,000 for heating and cooling, potential savings could be:

• $500 – $600 per year due to attic insulation upgrade.
• $200 per year due to smart thermostat usage.

Carbon Savings:

Reduced energy consumption translates to lower carbon emissions from electricity generation. The exact amount would depend on the energy source mix in the local grid.

Cost-Benefit Analysis:

• Attic Insulation Upgrade:

  • Cost: $1,500 – $2,000 (material and installation)
  • Payback Period: 3-5 years

• Smart Thermostat:

  • Cost: $100 – $200
  • Payback Period: 1-2 years

Overall, the proposed measures offer significant energy and cost savings with relatively short payback periods. These improvements also contribute to a reduced carbon footprint.

Additional Notes:

• This is a sample analysis, and actual costs and savings may vary depending on specific circumstances.
• Conducting a home energy audit can provide a more detailed assessment of potential energy savings from various retrofit measures.
• There might be financial incentives available from local governments or utility companies to encourage energy efficiency upgrades.

By implementing these and potentially other energy-efficient measures, the homeowner can create a more comfortable and sustainable living environment.