Abstract
This study discusses the interplays between urban form and energy performance using a case study in Singapore. We investigate educational urban quarters in the tropical climate of Singapore using simulation-based parametric geometric modelling. Three input variables of urban form were examined: street network orientation, street canyon width, and building depth. In total, 280 scenarios were generated using a quasi-Monte Carlo Saltelli sampler and Grasshopper. For each scenario, the City Energy Analyst, an open-source urban building energy simulation program, calculated solar energy penetration. To assess the variables’ importance, we applied Sobol’ sensitivity analysis. Results suggest that the street width and building depth were the most influential parameters.
Highlights
The building and construction sector accounts for one-third of rising global energy use [1] and has a significant energy efficiency potential
This study focuses on the relationship of urban form and energy in the hot and humid tropical climate, taking Singapore as a case study
Higher values of building depth correspond to better solar energy penetration
Summary
The building and construction sector accounts for one-third of rising global energy use [1] and has a significant energy efficiency potential To unlock this potential, considerations of energy systems could be implemented in the early urban design stages. At present, solar energy is Singapore’s main opportunity for renewable energy, and the country is taking action to allocate solar energy production on every type of suitable surface, including floating PV farms on its coastal waters and PV systems on building envelopes. In this context, new urban development projects can respond to this trend.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
