Energy optimization of mid-rise buildings in tropical areas: a residential site case study

Abstract

Residential buildings and living conditions have greatly changed over the last two decades. In fact, with a few exceptions, current buildings are not the kind of habitats belonged to today. Due to the development of innovative materials, products and construction methods, the construction of environmentally friendly buildings with better economic efficiency seems essential. The present study seeks to provide simple and practical solutions to reduce energy consumption and develop comfort in residential buildings in cities influenced by hot climatic conditions. To this end, a 4-storey residential building in the city of Ahvaz, Iran, is simulated by Design Builder Software (which uses Energy plus engine) to investigate the impact of alternative roofing and facade materials, awning, windows, and others, on energy efficiency. The results show that using rockwool and aluminum composite panels (ACP) facade, pumice concrete roofing, double glazed windows, vertical awning of a 70 cm height, and a balcony of 50 cm depth are the best composition to thermal reinforcement for residential buildings and decrease energy consumption.