Evaluating Advanced Glazing Technologies on Energy and Carbon Footprint of office buildings

Advanced Glazing Technologies on Energy and Carbon Footprint

Abstract

Recently, the strategy of adaptation of the local climate change and site conditions is always an important issue that faces the decision makers, especially reducing energy consumption. Governments have great efforts in reducing the amount of carbon dioxide as greenhouse gas emission that is released into the atmosphere.

In Egypt, temperatures in summer increase because of the intense solar radiation. Thermal environment of office buildings is deemed significant to enhance the quality of life. The research focuses on how smart glass affect energy consumption in office buildings while still getting the most natural light. Additionally, the study uses New- Cairo Egypt as it considers location. In this study, seven different types of glazing are compared and used in office building to see which one works best in this regard, in addition to study the effect of smart glass on increasing energy efficiency by using the simulation tool Energy Plus-Design Builder. Results show thermo-chromic and Sega glazing achieved the best results in reducing cooling energy consumption and enhancing CO2 Emissions. Moreover, the total energy consumption for cooling of the building decreased by 47.5% than the single clear glazing.