A systematic methodological framework to study climate change impacts on heating and cooling demands of buildings. (1st January 2023) - Abolhassani, Soroush Samareh
Abstract: Global warming is already significantly impacting communities, their health and infrastructure. Previous studies showed that climate change is making the earth warmer, which consequently affects the heating and cooling loads of buildings and their thermal performance. Therefore, it is beneficial to analyze how buildings respond to climate change in terms of energy consumption. This information is essential for forecasting future energy requirements and decision making on the best long-term energy efficiency measures and supply systems. This can be achieved through assessing the thermal load pattern of buildings and the required energy supply under future climatic conditions. The objective of this study was to critically review the existing literature investigating building performance under climate change. The studies were classified according to the ANSI/ASHRAE 169–2020 climatic zones to conduct a logical comparison. However, it was found that, despite a rich body of literature in this field, a universal conclusion cannot be drawn. This is due to the fact that intercomparison of results is impossible since a coherent approach was not used in the earlier studies. Consequently, a step-by-step procedure was introduced to harmonize future research. It is expected that the achievements of this study can direct the forthcoming research towards adopting a systematic method for building impact assessment under climate change. Graphical abstract: Geographical distribution of the studies showing their ANSI/ASHRAE 169–2020 climatic zones indicating more research is needed for the Middle East, Africa, and the poles. Image 1 Highlights: Investigated the impact of climate change on thermal performance of buildings. Conducted a comprehensive literature review based on climatic condition. Utilized climatic zones defined by ANSI/ASHRAE 169-2020. Intercomparison of results cannot be achieved among most studies. Recommended a step-by-step procedure for directing the forthcoming research.