Study on the comprehensive energy performance of different shading systems in China

Abstract This study evaluates the impacts of different shading systems on the comprehensive energy performance of buildings in China. Firstly, simulation models for four shading systems were developed using THERM, WINDOW and EnergyPlus. Then, four shading systems with different qualities, setting modes and baseline window systems were defined and simulated. Two cities, Beijing and Guangzhou, were selected as representative cities for heating-dominated and cooling-dominated regions in this study. Finally, the comprehensive energy performance, including cooling electricity consumption, heating electricity consumption and lighting electricity consumption for buildings with different shading systems were analysed. The results show that in Beijing, the most suitable shading system is roller shade with D quality (the combination of performance parameters), H (half shading) setting mode and low-e glazing system, while in Guangzhou, the most suitable shading system is roller shade with A quality, F (Full shading) setting mode and low-e glazing system. Besides, buildings in Beijing with suitable shading systems can achieve at least 20% energy saving potential (including air conditioning and lighting electricity consumption) compared with buildings without shading systems and the corresponding figure for Guangzhou is 50%. The conclusions of this study provide a reference for design and selection of shading systems in different regions in China.