Effectiveness of solar shading devices for buildings: Case study analysis of a hotel

This study focus on the contribution of solar shading devices on the energy needs of a hotel located in Portugal. There is no doubt that enhancing the energy performance of buildings is a priority given that buildings contribute a major part of European energy consumption. To reduce the buildings' energy consumption, the use of shading systems in the glazing is a passive solution to be considered especially in Mediterranean climates. In this sense, the proposed study arises from the need to make designers aware of the correct choice and dimensioning of solar shading devices. To carry out this study, several numerical simulations were performed using the EnergyPlus® software. First, the existing solar shading devise in the building was analyzed, and then successive simulations were carried out with different solar shadings (such as shutters and Venetian blinds), in order to understand the impact that each one has on energy needs. Additionally, simulations for several orientations and for different SHGC-values of the glazing were made. The results obtained show the importance that the orientations of the glazing and type of shadings have on energy demands as well as the advantages and disadvantages of using a low-emissivity glass. For the climate under study, the use of low-emissivity glass resulted in an increase in heating energy needs between 15 and 19%. Regarding the solar shading devices, it was found that the installation of a Venetian blind on outside of the glazing allowed a reduction of energy needs by up to 45%.