Solar potential in facades integrating urban density: A critical eye on chilean urban standards

Abstract

This article seeks to explore the foundations and simulations of solar potential in the facades of a high urban density built environment to review Chile's energy-related urban standards. The discussion involved research linked with building and topological relationships associated with sun and shade exposures of adjacent volumetric. Spatial and energy simulation tools were used to model a specific architecture-urban project. Then, this same pilot project was placed in different cities sited in the three regional groupings considered by the standards. The outcomes reveal shades on neighboring facades and interstitial spaces resulting in a considerable difference among the energy provided to each of them. As a conclusion, while standards are making slow progress there is still room for improvements by capturing sunlight in facades and the interstices between buildings sited in high-density contexts. This would thus improve energy generation in housing and promote sustainable cities.