Learning Outcomes
The aim of this module is to provide an understanding of the building’s design principles and approach so that it can achieve the high energy and environmental performance, whilst it ensures high indoor environmental quality conditions.
By having accomplished the course, students will be able to integrate the design principles of HVAC systems, of automation and controls, but also of the adaptation of the building to the climate, the microclimate, the topology and operational and habitual conditions.
Students will hence be acquainted with:
(a) energy performance design and assessment methods and tools, as well as with measures to improve the efficiency of new and existing buildings
(b) environmental assessment methods and tools, along with measures to reduce the buildings' environmental footprint
(c) strategies to manage the existing building stock towards a sustainable urban environment and the application of circular economy principles.
General Competences
Apply knowledge in practice
Retrieve, analyse and synthesise data and information, with the use of necessary technologies
Make decisions
Work in teams
Work in an interdisciplinary team
Respect natural environment
Course Content (Syllabus)
The impact of buildings on nature: The effects of current designing, planning and construction practice. Introduction to energy efficient and bioclimatic design. Renewable energy sources in buildings: Passive and active solar systems, building integrated PVs, geothermal systems. Energy auditing and energy studies. Dynamic simulation of the building’s energy behaviour. Energy and environmental certification of buildings. Sustainability policies: The European and national legal framework, managing the building stock, setting aims for future developments.
