Morphologic Alternatives to Maximize Solar Space Heating in Urban Buildings of Arid Zone Cities

ARBOIT, MARIELA; MESA, ALEJANDRO Y DE ROSA, CARLOS

Singapore

Conferencia; PLEA2007 - The 24rd Conference on Passive and Low Energy Architecture; 2007

Passive and Low Energy Architecture Association

The construction of knowledge on the solar potential of low-density urban environments in cities with temperate sunny climates, is essential to the progress towards a more sustainable urban development in the future. This research proposes the evaluation of the solar potential of low-density urban tissues of Mendoza’s Metropolitan Area (MMA), considering urban and building morphologic variables, with particular attention on the incidence of the urban forest.   A sample set of 32 units (city - blocks) was selected for the study.   In a first stage a graphic-computational model was used to  determine the actual  insolation of potential  collecting  surfaces and  the  resulting values of the Potential  Energy  Savings  (PES) indicator. In a second stage, given the complexity of the variable’s interrelationships, the results were analyzed through the use of a Statistical Multiple Linear Regression Model (SMLRM).  The useful results yielded were:  1. An orderly listing of the most significant explanatory variables to determine the PES, response variable, i.e. the potential for energy recovery in   conventional   urban buildings, by increasing conservation measures and additional solar gain. 2. The development of a simple inference tool (equation), extensive to the easy assessment of other units. The PES values obtained range from 61 to 80 % of the city’s theoretical energy need for space heating in low-density urban areas. Studies on economic feasibility and patterns of actual energy consumption for the use are being considered for further research.