Impact of windows to wall ratio on energy consumption in building sector of Pakistan

Abstract

Pakistan is facing severe shortage of energy. The gap between demand and supply is gradually increasing leading to heavy load shedding. This crisis has badly affected the life of people and economic growth of Pakistan which appears as a barrier in the long-term future. Along with other reasons, energy losses by the end user are one of most important aspect of energy crisis. To cope with this situation proper interventions are needed. Building sector is one of the major energy consumers and source of energy wastages if not properly managed. The energy losses in buildings are due to installation of inefficient equipments and improper utilization of electrical & mechanical systems. It is also observed that, energy efficiency parameters & standards are not being kept under considerations during the designing and construction of new buildings, which is resulting in high consumption of energy. Keeping in view the importance of building energy consumption and its impacts, Energy Audits of public sector building i.e. Pakistan Secretariat (Block A, B, C, D, P, R and S) were conducted. The sample was comprised of old and new buildings. After analysis of data gathered through energy audits, up to 30 % of Energy Saving Opportunities were identified. In this paper, some technical parameters regarding windows to wall ratio, lighting, AC, building envelop and water treatment having high impact on energy consumption and comfort level in the building, are identified which may be adopted as per local environmental conditions.