Retrofitting residential buildings in the University of Sharjah

Abstract

Abstract. The aim of the research is to investigate best retrofitting strategies that minimizing energy consumption within the context of thermal comfort. The research has targeted two residential compounds in the University of Sharjah: Al Khwarizmi and Al Baironi. Climate Consultant and ECOTECT were used in the simulation process in order to select best passive strategies and tools for the retrofitting. Several parameters such as building orientation, shading devices, and glazing types, were tested during the simulation process. As a result, the study determined the most suitable tools for the existing compounds. The study showed that the use of double glazing with shading devices reduced cooling loads in Al Baironi with 5.42 MWh and 8.13 MWh in Al Khwarizmi. Also, addressed that U-shaped residential layout is more efficient than liner-shaped layout.