Impact of Solar Gain on Energy Consumption and Thermal Comfort

Energy consumption in the residential and tertiary sectors is particularly high in developed countries. There is great potential for energy savings in these sectors. Among the techniques that reduce the energy consumption of a building in the winter, we have the orientation. Optimal exposure ensures thermal and visual comfort with a minimum of energy consumption. We will begin this work with a simulation that shows the effect of solar gain in winter on a room with four supposed orientations: South, East, West and North. Equations which show solar contribution as well as factors influencing it have been developed. Then, we will conduct an experimental comparison between two equivalent rooms with different orientations. For each room, we will measure the temperature, relative humidity and energy consumption of its heat pump. The obtained results show that a south orientation saves up to 8.5% of heating energy, ensures good natural lighting and reduces considerably the relative humidity in the room. Concerning the room facing north, we propose a practical solution which will contribute to the heat pump consumption reduction by exploiting the solar gain and improve natural lighting.