Intended users
This Dynamo model serves as a valuable tool for architects and energy consultants, facilitating the decision-making process regarding the allocation of roof areas for solar panels, skylights, and green roofs.
Need you’re trying to provide a solution or support for
This model enables detailed analysis and comparison of the energy efficiency, aesthetics, and environmental benefits associated with each option. With this model, architects and energy consultants can evaluate factors such as available roof space, desired energy generation, natural lighting requirements, and the desire for a visually appealing and sustainable building design. By considering the specific objectives and constraints of the project, the Dynamo model helps inform the optimal distribution of roof areas, ensuring a well-balanced integration of solar panels, skylights, and green roofs that aligns with the desired architectural vision and energy efficiency goals.
Inputs
Solar Panels Efficiency
Green Roof Insulation Efficiency: 0.1 to 0.3 kilowatt-hours per square foot (kWh/ft²) per year in cooling, and 0.02 to 0.1 kilowatt-hours per square foot (kWh/ft²) per year in heating.
Skylights: 0.1 to 0.5 kilowatt-hours per square foot (kWh/ft²) per year
Roof Area for Solar Panels
Roof Area for Skylights
Roof Area for Green Roof
Underlying logic of the model you’ll implement
The underlying logic of the model I'll implement is based on evaluating three key factors: well-being, aesthetics, and return on investment (ROI). By incorporating skylights, green roofs, and solar panels into the design, we aim to optimize these factors.
For the well-being aspect, the model will consider the benefits of natural light from skylights and the fresh air provided by green roofs. These elements are known to positively impact occupant comfort, mood, and productivity, thereby potentially increasing overall well-being.
In terms of aesthetics, the model recognizes that skylights and green roofs often offer more visually pleasing features compared to solar panels. Skylights introduce natural light, creating a visual connection to the outdoors, while green roofs enhance the building's exterior with lush vegetation, adding beauty and harmony to the design.
From a return on investment perspective, the model will assess the economic benefits associated with each option. Solar panels contribute to energy savings and potential revenue generation through feed-in tariffs or net metering programs. Skylights and green roofs can provide cost savings by reducing the need for artificial lighting and improving energy efficiency, potentially yielding a favorable return on investment over time.
By considering these factors, the model aims to strike a balance between maximizing occupant well-being, achieving an aesthetically pleasing design, and ensuring a favorable return on investment. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment that guides the decision-making process and supports the creation of buildings that prioritize occupant satisfaction, visual appeal, and financial viability.
Outputs
Well-being Point: Skylights and green roofs receive high well-being scores due to their ability to provide abundant natural light, fresh air, and a pleasant environment for building occupants.
Aesthetic Point: Compared to solar panels, skylights and green roofs generally score higher in terms of aesthetics. Skylights bring in natural light, creating a visual connection with the outdoors and enhancing the openness of interior spaces. Green roofs add a visually appealing element with lush vegetation, creating vibrant rooftop landscapes that contribute to the overall beauty of the building.
Energy Saving: Total Energy saving from three options as well as how much energy the building requires from the grid.