Multi-objective optimization of shading solutions for a standard family house under Lithuanian conditions

Abstract

Energy efficiency and high indoor quality have become equally important key targets in building design. On the one hand, here passive solar design techniques can successfully take advantage of building site and climate. But on the other hand – most of the shading gives not just positive effects on summer comfort, but at the same time negatively effects heating and lighting energy consumption. This paper aims to investigate the potential of certain shading solutions, their appliance and regulation modes on building annual energy demand and comfort parameters, in order to find the optimal shading. For a case study one-storey standard family house in Lithuania and 20 shading solutions for it have been modelled. The combination of energy simulation program DesignBuilder and decision-making software, based on Analytic Hierarchy Process, have been used. As the result, the external blinds, operating according to the fixed room temperature appeared be the optimal solution for the analyzed family house. The research process had showed, that because of conflicting expert goals and varying criteria values, the optimal shading solution can’t be properly chosen without incorporation of decision making process.