Predicting solar radiation acquisition and defining morphological thresholds in residential buildings under a theoretical model: A case study of Lhasa, China

Abstract

Residential building morphology plays a critical role in solar energy capture in cold regions with abundant sunlight; however, predictive mechanisms for optimizing solar gains remain underexplored. This study employs a theoretical model to analyze idealized morphological variations in Lhasa, China, identifying strategies to enhance solar performance. Results demonstrate that the winter sunlight shape factor outperforms traditional metrics like aspect ratio in predicting solar efficiency across diverse geometries. Complex configurations (e.g., L-shaped and C-shaped layouts) exhibit significant self-shading effects, necessitating strategic adjustments to orientation and form. Optimal orientations are identified as slightly west of south for rectangular/L-shaped structures and due south for C-shaped buildings. High-accuracy predictive models based on morphological parameters provide actionable design tools. By integrating theoretical insights with regional climatic demands, this work establishes guidelines for energy-efficient residential design in solar-rich cold regions, balancing regulatory constraints with solar optimization. The methodology and transferable principles offer a universal framework for cold-climate architecture, adaptable to regions with analogous solar-thermal conditions.