Optimal Spatial Configuration for Energy and Solar Use in Alpine-Frigid Resettlement Communities
Resettlement communities in Qinghai are located in cold, high-altitude regions with dry climates and strong solar radiation. Although not extremely cold, the moderate heating demand aligns well with high solar availability, making passive design highly effective for reducing energy use. This study i...
Saved in:
| Main Authors: | , , , , |
|---|---|
| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-07-01
|
| Series: | Buildings |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/2075-5309/15/15/2691 |
| Tags: |
Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
|
| Summary: | Resettlement communities in Qinghai are located in cold, high-altitude regions with dry climates and strong solar radiation. Although not extremely cold, the moderate heating demand aligns well with high solar availability, making passive design highly effective for reducing energy use. This study investigates solar-optimized spatial configurations that enhance passive energy performance while addressing functional settlement needs. Through parametric modeling and climate-responsive simulations, four key spatial parameters are examined: building spacing, courtyard depth, density, and volumetric ratio. The findings highlight the dominant role of front–rear spacing in solar access, with optimal values at 3–4 m for single-story and 5–10 m for two-story buildings, balancing radiation gain and land use efficiency. Courtyard depths under 2.7 m significantly limit south façade exposure due to shading from the opposite courtyard wall under low-angle winter sun. This reduction results in the south façade attaining only 55.7–79.6% of the solar radiation acquisition by an unobstructed south façade (the baseline). Meanwhile, clustered orientations reduce inter-building shading losses by 38–42% compared to dispersed layouts. A three-tiered design framework is proposed: (1) macro-scale solar orientation zoning, (2) meso-scale spacing tailored to building height, and (3) micro-scale courtyard modulation for low-angle winter radiation. Together, these strategies provide practical, scalable guidelines for energy-efficient, climate-responsive settlement design in the alpine regions of Qinghai. |
|---|---|
| ISSN: | 2075-5309 |