There is compelling scientific evidence that our climate is changing, and it is probable that average temperatures will increase by several degrees over the coming century. These increases in temperature are expected to have a major impact on the indoor environment of buildings in the UK.
Key questions are:
- To what extent will climate change increase the occurrence of summertime thermal discomfort and 'overheating'?
- To what extent will passive measures be able to improve summertime thermal comfort and ameliorate the increased propensity for overheating?
- How effective will different approaches to comfort cooling be under the changing climate?
- What are the energy use implications of the various strategies?
This publication addresses these questions through dynamic thermal computer modelling of 13 case study buildings, chosen to provide a cross section of UK building types, including dwellings, schools and offices, and illustrate a range of different approaches to comfort cooling provision.