Adjusting Building Renovation Design to Occupant Characteristics

Abstract

This study highlights the importance of integrating the occupants’ schedule into the building renovation design process, as it directly impacts the building’s future energy consumption. To this end, the research examined operational energy consumption in three buildings inhabited by three distinct population groups: families, hotel employees, and students. Simulations conducted in the study reveal how the occupants’ schedule affects operational energy consumption. Computer models were utilized to analyze building behavior under varying climatic conditions throughout the year. The simulations evaluated parameters such as wall-to-window ratio (WWR), building orientation, glazing type, thermal insulation thickness and type. The findings indicate that factors like WWR and orientation significantly impact energy consumption, but the effect varies across population groups. For instance, occupants who spend extended hours in the building during peak heat hours, such as students, benefit more from enhanced thermal insulation and external shading compared to families who are often absent during these hours. Furthermore, the study uncovered challenges in accurately characterizing tenants. While general data on occupancy hours can be obtained, accurately defining consumption habits, such as the use of electrical devices or thermal comfort preferences, remains difficult. This challenge creates gaps between predicted operational energy and actual consumption, particularly when relying on generalized scenarios that do not align with specific occupant types. The study’s findings underscore the importance of integrating occupant characteristics into the building renovation design process, combining precise data analysis, alternative evaluations, and project-specific adaptations.