A simplified hourly model for energy characterisation of transparent active façades. A comparison between simulation results and monitored data

Transparent façades are widely applied in commercial buildings, even though a highly glazed building envelope can increase energy needs and reduce the indoor thermal comfort. In order to reduce energy demand and overcome discomfort problems of traditional glazing systems, active transparent façades can be adopted. Anyway, this technology is characterised by a dynamic behaviour and it requires an integrated design approach and dynamic energy simulations, which represent a barrier to a wider adoption of these technologies. The aim of this work was to develop a simplified hourly energy model for evaluating the energy performance of active transparent façades (e.g. double skin façades), which would be useful during the preliminary design stage. Starting from a CSTB hourly energy model, a new tool was developed for calculating the energy performance of active transparent façades with solar shading devices and ventilated cavities. The model was validated against monitored data retrieved during an experimental campaign on a full-scale mock-up room of an office building equipped with a mechanically ventilated double skin façade.