Thermal simulation of different construction types in six climatic regions on heating and cooling loads

TL;DRAbstract

K-10032 [www.kashan.co.za] INTRODUCTION Buildings in South Africa are designed with little regard to passive heating and cooling techniques (Lombard et al., 1999); therefore indoor thermal environments are uncomfortable leading to high electrical energy consumption from heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. HVAC loads require an estimated 4 000 gigawatt hours of electricity per annum (Eskom, 2010); this load could be reduced by 50–75% through the adoption of appropriate passive interventions. This, in turn, would significantly reduce the nation’s energy bill and positively contribute to environmental impact and climate change mitigation, as well as alleviate uncomfortable indoor conditions experienced by many citizens (Clarke, 2001).

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