A Multi-objective harmony-search algorithm for building life-cycle energy optimization

In recent years, resource depletion and environmental pollution represent major concerns for society. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), construction is considered as the third largest industry sector in terms of contributions to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the United States. The negative environmental effects of construction processes have been increasing quickly in the world because of the large number of continuing construction projects. Buildings are one of the main consumers of energy and thus important contributors to the emission of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Buildings consume 40% of energy, 65% of electricity, and produce 30% of greenhouse gas emissions. In the current study, a multi-objective optimization model using harmony-search algorithm is proposed to find the optimum design of building based on the building design parameters and climate conditions. Life-cycle analysis methodology is used to assess design alternatives for both economical and environmental criteria. This model is employed to minimize the carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂-eq) emissions and the life-cycle cost (LCC) of a typical single-family house. The multi-objective model proves to be efficient, and a set of optimal combinations (Pareto optimal solution) is obtained.