Assessing different glazing types for energy savings and CO2 reduction in a tropical climate: A comparative study

Abstract

Energy efficiency in buildings and the mitigation of CO2 are key factors in the advancement of contemporary architecture, which includes aesthetic elements such as skylights, façades, and windows. Therefore, in this work the impact of different glazing types on energy savings and CO2 reduction was presented. A comparative analysis was conducted taking into account the climate-oriented approach in a specific climate context, Aw Köppen Climate Classification. Based on numerical results of the conjugate heat transfer in a two-dimensional geometry in a transient state, first, the glazing thermal performance under extreme weather conditions was evaluated, subsequently, an annual thermal evaluation was conducted. Triple glazing was highlighted as an effective option as it reduced heat loss by 56.5 % on the coldest day and reduced heat gain by 31.0 % on the warmest day in Mérida, Yucatán. Triple glazing also showed efficiency in reducing the total heat flux per unit area by 32.7 % under extreme temperature and solar radiation conditions, coldest day – south orientation and warmest day – west orientation. While glazing orientation showed a significant role in overheating, triple glazing decreased electricity consumption and CO2 emissions by 29 % per year, making it a leading choice for sustainable architecture.