A Comparative Study Of Simulation Tools To Model The Solar Irradiation On Building Façades

This paper presents a comparison among eight tools commonly used to evaluate the solar irradiation in urban environments. The focus is on the vertical surfaces (i.e., façades). The analysed tools have a large range of applications, from detailed microclimate studies to large-scale irradiation modelling. The benchmark tests consist of simulations using two conceptual urban designs. Two representative winter and summer days are defined. The results, obtained for the modelling of the shortwave irradiance received on the façades, are discussed together with the observed differences. This work provides an overview of some of the available tools, their features, similarities, and differences as well as a comparison of the modelled solar irradiation. This work is conducted in the framework of IEA SHC Task 63 “Solar Neighborhood Planning” where experts from five countries, in six universities, two companies and one research institute have been engaged.