Optimisation of passive solar systems seasonal operation in conditions of central Europe

Abstract

The paper deals with optimisation of passive solar systems installed on family and office buildings in central Europe locations. In these territories, in contrast to more southern countries, it is not typical to utilize passive solar systems on public or private buildings. Although these systems can significantly influence thermal comfort inside the buildings, many controversions and myths reduce wider utilisation. It could be expected, that new European legislative tending to common energy savings will cause also wider usage of these systems. In contrast of classic countries utilizing passive solar systems, the benefits can be expected either in hot season or in cold season. If we focus on systems that can supplement existing buildings – roller blinds and slats, significant energy and economy benefits can be easily reached. These systems can either decrease or avoid overheating during hot summer days or to limit thermal loses in cold winter days and nights. This paper compares various roller blind and slat systems installed on office building and family house. Exact measurements explains the influence on thermal gains, thermal loses and thermal comfort in particular storeys during constituent seasons. The main results of these experiments and calculations are principles of operational charts for particular locations in the buildings leading to provable energy savings and economy profits. The measurements also serve as verification of computer simulations.