Innovative solar control devices
Innovative solar control devices
Buildings are the EU's largest energy users, consuming over 40 % of Europe's total primary energy. One way of cutting this consumption is by avoiding or reducing cooling energy through proper solar shading. This paper presents examples of innovative solar control devices and emphasizes their relevance for the energy performance of buildings
Solar shading controls the amount of heat and light admitted to a building.
By doing so, solar shading devices contribute to saving energy in various
areas. They can reduce the need for heating or air conditioning by
maintaining a more even temperature despite varying climatic conditions.
They can also cut the amount of energy required for lighting, by admitting
more light during overcast conditions for example.
Besides the thermal and energy aspects, solar shading leads to better
visual comfort. Glare reduction will improve working conditions in offices,
reduce sick leave, increase productivity and contribute to health and
safety at work. Solar control devices are also necessary on the North
facade on certain buildings in order to prevent glare problems.
Information Paper P186 of ASIEPI European Project/
