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Passive Solar Building Design - Passive solar building design |
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Other passive solar design techniques Building position - Based on the local climate and the sun's positioning (determined using a heliodon), the entire building can be positioned and angled to be oriented towards or away from the sun (according whether heating or cooling is the primary concern), overshadowing from other structures or natural features can be avoided or used, and the building can be set into the ground using earth sheltering techniques.
Building properties - The shape (and consequently the surface area) of the building can be controlled to reduce the heating or cooling requirement, and the use of materials properties to reflect, absorb, or transmit energy (for example using visible colour) is also a consideration.
External environment - Energy-efficient landscaping materials, including the use of trees and plants can be selected to reflect or absorb heat, create summer shading (particularly in the case of deciduous plants), and create shelter from the wind.
Although not classified as a passive solar technology, the use of thermal insulation or superinsulation can be employed to reduce heat loss or unwanted heat gain
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