Improving Expo/Exhibition Daylighting in the Tropics by Reducing Energy Consumption
Abdullahi Yusuf & Dr. A. J. Ango
Department of Architecture, Faculty of Environmental Design
Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
Email: yusufwilsonwakawa@gmail.com, aaronango@gmail.com
Correspondence Author: Abdullahi Yusuf
ABSTRACT
Getting light into the building entity in a clever way is an important stride to designing energy efficient buildings. Learning how to use daylighting, in an efficient way while having control will reduce energy demands in buildings and also and facilitate a good visual comfort for users especially in a developing country like Nigeria where most trade fare take place using artificial lighting which increases operational cost. Most Expo/Exhibition tends to use artificial lighting because proper daylighting design has not integrated into the building. This study identifies different daylighting techniques that will reduce operational cost and at the same time, create a good visual experience. Literatures on daylighting were studied, in which the advantages of daylighting in buildings were identified, different daylighting techniques and system were examined and various ways daylighting can reduce operational cost. Case studies of relevant exhibition Centre buildings were analysed using appropriate variables, a model of the entire building, simulation using Ecotect, Radiance and daysim and data from metrological department and validation of result carried out furthermore changes was made to the various material under observation in terms of their “u-value” “R-value” and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) and it was observed that energy consumption in terms of lighting was reduced by 35% from Daylight Factor (DF) Analysis26% to 75%. An important finding of the research was that a conscious proposition that will fuse daylighting as a major design consideration in term of materials and design considerations is essential for a successful daylighting design for buildings. This finding affects the design process from optimizing building orientation, the perfect size, form and glazing treatment for windows, working with bright interior surface and shading for visual comfort. For the research design, atrium, laminated glass, and light shelves was appropriate for use. The implication of this finding opens a new dimension to the design of Expo/Exhibition centres.
Keywords: Daylighting, Energy Consumption, Energy saving, Sustainability, Expo/Exhibition centres, daylight material, Visibility transmittance, U-value, R-value
