Introduction to Energy Efficiency Through Bioclimatic Design: Case Studies, Quantitative Verifications and Regulatory Management

: Optional Curriculum Subject "Introduction to energy efficiency for housing" seeks to internalize in students the need to conceive project idea through an integral thought that contemplates design guidelines with passive architecture criteria and link theoretical topics taught in different subjects of Architecture career in relation to energy efficiency to be applied in the project practice in a concrete way. It is essential to introduce the importance of using natural and climatic resources responsibly, these being crucial for people, society and environment. Investigating a series of project resources allows mitigating and reducing environmental impact generated by a building as a contribution to climate change. Digital tools and calculation methods will allow verification of the correct location of construction on site, study orientations, solar radiation, prevailing winds and efficient envelope design preferably materialized with materials from the region. The knowledge of site and climate and correct control and management of energy and materials, are aspects that make the project sustainable, therefore, they are taken into account in the teaching of the subject as a starting point in the student's task as a future professional of architecture. The proposed practical exercise must comply certain items that are partially and methodologically resolved as the theory is taught. We work on three types of single-family homes on ground floor implanted in a bioclimatic area of your choice. Students must analyze them according to climatic principles and strategies to determine which typology is best adapted according to the passive design criteria and recommendations for said area. This implies verifying dimensional and energy indicators and building thermal quality of buildings. Through modality of integration seminar that consists of a graphic and quantitative synthesis, debate and exchange of ideas and final reflections are carried out. The objectives indicated from the teaching-learning were successfully achieved, with the theoretical topics applied correctly. Use of digital tools, thermographic images and 3D modeling was evidenced.