STUDIES OF THE THERMALPERFORMANCE OF BUILDINGSIN SUMMER IN SOUTHERN EUROPE

Abstract

This paper describes the studies carried out in project PASCOOL to document and assess the thermal performance of selected buildings in Southern Europe and to identify possible improvements. Twenty-three buildings from nine European countries were surveyed and monitored for a short period during summertime. The measurements and survey data obtained formed the basis for sensitivity studies with thermal simulation. The selection encompassed buildings of typical construction, including both recent and traditional, residential and non-residential. The sensitivity studies addressed the effects of shading, thermal inertia, ventilation, window orientation and colour of external surfaces, envelope insulation, and occupancy patterns. The paper presents the methodology adopted for the measurements and sensitivity studies and discusses the main conclusions drawn from the studies- It identifies options for improving occupant thermal comfort with little or no mechanical cooling.