Impact of the urban environment on the thermal performance and environmental quality of residential buildings: a case study in Athens

This paper examines the impact of the urban context on the energy performance of a residential building in Athens. Current and future weather files were modified to consider the urban heat island, the overshadowing of adjacent buildings, and the modification of wind speed due to the effects of urban canyons. Dynamic thermal simulations were carried out using the modified weather files. The results indicate that there was a change in heating and cooling demand in comparison to using typical weather files; heating was reduced, but cooling was increased with a total increase in energy demand. There was variation due to height, while overshadowing impacts energy demand significantly. The modified weather analysis also indicates that there are periods in the year that cooling and heating are negligible. During these periods, passive strategies can be used to maintain good internal air quality if occupants are informed how to use their windows and shading devices according to prevailing weather conditions. A method of achieving this occupant-centric operation of the building is described, and the results of an intervention study are discussed. It shows that internal environmental quality can be improved by occupant actions based on forecast weather conditions to direct them.