Solar access potential affected by urban planning and building design – A parametric study in the urban context

Abstract: In the initial stage of planning, considering the solar impact of urban layout on the building can effectively avoid some irreversible design issues, improve the indoor environment, and reduce energy demand. The typical architectural models of three representative cities (Copenhagen, Berlin and Hong Kong) were selected as the analysis cases in this study. By analysing several sunlight and solar metrics via Grasshopper in Rhino, at first, we can know if they meet local regulations. Those mentioned metrics included annual solar irradiation, heating season irradiation, vertical illuminance, sun hour, vertical daylight factor, vertical sky component and shadow cast aerial view. Then a few urban parameters with greater influence on passive and active solar potential were selected to carry out a parametric study. By comparing the results, we can know how building geometry and urban layout affect the solar potential and which parameter contributes the most in these three cities. Through this research, we can provide suggestions to urban planners or architects that help them make decisions in the early stage of city planning about passive and active solar potential considering building shape, density, roof inclination and material of building envelope.