Solarchvision

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The natural and artificial environments significantly influence a building’s energy balance, creating microclimatic conditions that affect both energy-related and comfort aspects. Solar radiation is the most critical factor in this interaction, along with wind direction and speed. In urban complexes, buildings can overshadow one another at various times, while also reflecting solar radiation, impacting energy balance. To reduce heating and cooling demands in continental climates, the building envelope should maximize solar gain in winter and minimize it in summer. The solar heat received by different surfaces depends on their orientation and the shading from the surrounding environment. The urban form of neighborhoods and building clusters affects solar heat gain and shading patterns. While solar radiation is beneficial in winter, it can be detrimental in summer, necessitating a comprehensive approach to energy-efficient design. The SolarVision tool integrates solar radiation and air temperature, assessing the advantages and disadvantages of surfaces regarding solar exposure throughout the year. This analysis aids urban planning and building design for energy efficiency without increasing costs, as it requires no additional materials or technology. Following a scientific introduction to SolarVision, this research brief examines commercial mixed-use and New Generation Office Buildings, focusing on solar radiation intensity and