Utilization of renewable energy sources in bioclimatic architecture in Greece

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this study is to propose solutions to ensure comfort conditions for users by taking advantage of the bioclimatic architecture. This could serve as a solution to the energy shortage problem.

Design/methodology/approach

In this context, 40 bioclimatic buildings located in Greece were analyzed. These bioclimatic buildings were classified according to their climatic zones, functions, parameters pertaining to the physical and built environment, and the passive methods used for heating, cooling and lighting.

Findings

The high share of residential buildings in the distribution of Greece’s bioclimatic buildings according to climatic zones can be attributed to the large number of users that residential buildings have when compared to other types of buildings. Among the physical environmental parameters, climatic parameters were found to be highly influential. Other parameters had less significant effects, depending on land conditions.

Originality value

This study revealed the importance of bioclimatic applications in creating energy-efficient buildings. It is also important in terms of setting an example for creating bioclimatic architectural profiles of other countries.

Citation

Kartal, S. and Chousein, Ö. (2016), "Utilization of renewable energy sources in bioclimatic architecture in Greece", World Journal of Engineering, Vol. 13 No. 1, pp. 18-22. https://doi.org/10.1108/WJE-02-2016-002