Original scientific paper
Using shading systems to enhance energy efficiency, visual and thermal comfort in two case studies in Southern Italy
Tancredi Testasecca
; Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze Ed. 9, 90128 Palermo, Italy
Marina Bonomolo
; Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze Ed. 9, 90128 Palermo, Italy
Marco Beccali
; Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze Ed. 9, 90128 Palermo, Italy
Abstract
This study aims to propose a methodology that combines different tools to analyze visual comfort conditions by applying different shading systems (slatted and roller blinds), evaluating both visual and thermal comfort, and considering energy consumption in Mediterranean climate conditions. To do this, an energy model was developed by using EnergyPlus software that can serve as a guideline for designing energy-efficient yet comfortable indoor environments. The methodology has been tested for two different case studies located in Palermo and in Pantelleria (Italy). Furthermore, different scenarios were analysed by using Python. The “Base Case” has been analyzed to understand when the shading system should be closed based on the visual comfort condition with all window shadings open. Based on the Base Case results, Scenario 1 and Scenario 2 included a simulation with different shading systems to mitigate visual discomfort using dynamic shading based on solar irradiance levels. These scenarios were analyzed to assess their impact on the space heating and cooling requirements, artificial lighting needs, and overall comfort levels. The control strategies, related to visual comfort, have been implemented by considering the illuminance values on different work planes. The results demonstrated that dynamic shading strategies reduced visual discomfort to below 0.3% of the hours at desk positions. However, artificial lighting demand increased by 14-28%, and cooling demand was reduced by up to 30% in the Pantelleria case study.
Keywords
Visual comfort, lighting, shading system, energy efficiency, daylighting, environmental comfort.
Hrčak ID:
334975
URI
Publication date:
1.9.2025.
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