Performance of passive design features in zero energy building of Singapore

Abstract

Zero Energy Building (ZEB) of Building and Construction Authority (BCA) in Singapore is a retrofitted building with different green building design features and technologies. It is used as a test-bed for innovative building designs and energy efficient building solutions, particularly for existing buildings. The study focused on the performance of shading devices and lightshelves in providing daylighting and affecting the thermal comfort in naturally ventilated classrooms under afternoon sun. Field physical measurements were conducted to compare the space with and without the passive design elements. For the shading devices, the complete setting configuration showed higher mean radiant temperature reduction of around 1°C - 2°C. The illuminance level of the complete setting configuration showed around 100 lux more reduction than the 4-panel configuration. For the lightshelves, the reflective surface improved about 100 lux at 1pm and did not improve much afterward. The mean radiant temperature showed a lag of half an hour. The zone with the reflective surface was heated up earlier and in overall, the temperature was increased of around 1°C deeper in the room. © 2012 ASCE.