Parametric investigation of geometric form effects on solar potential of housing units

The paper presents a study of the solar potential of different shapes of two-story single family housing units, located in mid-latitude climate. Seven plan geometries are studied: square, rectangle, trapezoid, L, U, H and T shapes. The study investigates the effect of these shapes on two major response variables – Solar radiation incident on equatorial-facing facades and transmitted by the fenestration of such facades, and electricity production potential of building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) covering roof surfaces with optimal solar exposure. The parameters, whose effects on the response variables are investigated, include, in addition to the basic shapes and roof design, variations to the geometry of L and U shapes and variations to the roof design. Shape variations include varying values of the relative dimensions of shading and shaded facades and variations to the angle enclosed by the wings of these shapes. Variations of roof design consist of modifications to the tilt and side angles of hip roofs. The results indicate that the number of shading facades in-self shading geometries and their relative dimensions are the major parameters affecting solar incident and transmitted radiation. Manipulation of the orientation of wings in L shape units can result in increased peak electricity generation potential, and in shifting the timing of the peak by up to 2 h either side of solar noon. The shift of peak load may be economically beneficial, facilitating more even distribution of electricity production over an assemblage of buildings. Judicious manipulation of unit shapes and window location can lead to optimization of solar radiation and its utilization for electricity generation and passive solar gain.

► This study investigates the potential of various geometric shapes of two-storey housing units to capture and exploit solar energy.
► Six basic shapes are studied. Variations to some these shapes are analyzed as well.
► Non convex shapes offer wide flexibility in architectural and solar design, but their efficient design is influenced by several parameters.
► Ratio of shading to shaded facade lengths and the angle between these two facades affect the solar radiation incident on facades and roofs.
► Designs that enable shifting of the BIPV peak electricity generation can be advantageous.