Sustainability 12 02573 PDF

sustainability
Article
Retrofitting an Existing Office Building in the UAE
Towards Achieving Low-Energy Building
Maatouk Khoukhi * , Abeer Fuad Darsaleh and Sara Ali
College of Engineering, United Arab Emirates University, 15551 Al Ain, UAE; 201870084@uaeu.ac.ae (A.F.D.);
201770012@uaeu.ac.ae (S.A.)
* Correspondence: mkhoukhi@uaeu.ac.ae

Received: 24 February 2020; Accepted: 20 March 2020; Published: 24 March 2020
Abstract: Retrofitting an existing building can oftentimes be more cost-effective than building a
new facility. Since buildings consume a significant amount of energy, particularly for heating and
cooling, and because existing buildings comprise the largest segment of the built environment, it
is important to initiate energy conservation retrofits to reduce energy consumption and the cost of
heating, cooling, and lighting buildings. However, conserving energy is not the only reason for
retrofitting existing buildings. The goal should be to create a high-performance building by applying
an integrated, whole-building design process to the project during the planning phase that ensures
that all key design objectives are met. This paper presents a real case study of the retrofitting of an
existing building to achieve lower energy consumption. Indeed, most of the constructed buildings in
the UAE are unsuitable for the region, which is characterized by a very harsh climate that causes
massive cooling loads and energy consumption due to an appropriate selection of design parameters
at the design level. In this study, a monthly computer simulation of energy consumption of an office
building in Sharjah was carried out under UAE weather conditions. Several parameters, including
the building orientation, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, external shading,
window-to-wall ratio, and the U-values of the walls and the roof, were investigated and optimized to
achieve lower energy consumption. The simulation shows that the best case is 41.7% more efficient
than the real (original) case and 30.6% more than the base case. The most sensitive parameter in the
retrofitting alternatives is the roof component, which affects the energy savings by 8.49%, followed by
the AC system with 8.34% energy savings if well selected using the base case. Among the selected
five components, a new roof structure contributed the most to the decrease in the overall energy
consumption (approximately 38%). This is followed by a new HVAC system, which leads to a 37%
decrease, followed by a new wall type with insulation, resulting in a 20% decrease.
Keywords: low energy; retrofitting; sustainable design; buildings
1. Introduction
In the last decade, the consumption of primary energy has rapidly grown by almost 50% according
to the US Energy Information Administration. The increase in population has led to the enhancement
of building services and increases in the comfort levels; thus, people spend more time inside buildings.
Moreover, economic development is a major reason for the high energy consumption. Figure 1 shows
the global energy usage by territory [1].
Sustainability 2020, 12, 2573; doi:10.3390/su12062573 www.mdpi.com/journal/sustainability

Sustainability 2020, 12, 2573 2 of 16
Sustainability2020,
Sustainability 2020,11,
11,xxFOR
FORPEER
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Figure1.
Figure
Figure 1.Global
1. Globalenergy
Global energyusage
energy usageby
usage byterritory
by territory[1].
territory [1].
[1].
Thissudden
This
This suddenincrease
sudden increasein
increase inthe
in theenergy
the energyconsumption
energy consumptiontrends
consumption trendshas
trends hasattracted
has attractedattention
attracted attention to tomany
manyaspects,
aspects,
suchas
such
such asthe
as thedepletion
the depletionof
depletion ofenergy
of energyresources
energy resourcesand
resources andmultiple
multipleenvironmental
multiple environmentalissues
environmental issues(CO2
issues (CO2emissions,
(CO2 emissions,global
emissions, global
global
warming,
warming, climate
climate change, etc.) [2].
[2]. Among
Among the
the various
various sectors,
sectors,buildings
buildings are the
are
warming, climate change, etc.) [2]. Among the various sectors, buildings are the largest consumers of largest
the largest consumers
consumers of
energy,
of energy,
energy, as shown
as shown
as shown in Figure
in Figure
in Figure 2, consuming
2, consuming
2, consuming up to
up toup 45%
45% of
to of
45% the energy
theofenergy in
the energythe
in the inUS
USthe[3],
[3],USwith
with a high
[3],a high carbon
with carbon
a high
dioxidedioxide
carbon
dioxide emission
emission of 30%
emission
of 30% [4].
of[4]. According
30%According
[4]. According to the
to the International
to the International
International Energy
Energy
Energy Agency (IEA),
Agency(IEA),
Agency (IEA),thethe energy
the energy
energy
consumption
consumption
consumption will
will exceed
exceed 50%
50% by
by 2025
2025 [5].
[5].
Figure2.
Figure
Figure 2.US
2. USenergy
US energyconsumption
energy consumptionin
consumption inthe
in thebuilding
the buildingsector.
building sector.
sector.
InInhot
In hotcountries
hot countriessuch suchas as the
asthe United
theUnited
UnitedArabArab Emirates
ArabEmirates
Emirates(UAE), (UAE),
(UAE), buildings
buildings
buildings account
account
account for
for aamajor
for major
a major share
share
share of
of
electrical
of electrical energy
energy consumption
consumption due dueto air
to conditioning
air conditioning (AC)
electrical energy consumption due to air conditioning (AC) and ventilation systems used in the and
(AC) andventilation
ventilation systems
systems used in
used the
in
extremely
the extremely
extremely hothot
hot climatic
climatic
climatic conditions
conditions
conditions [6].[6].
[6]. ACAC
AC systems
systems
systems consume
consume
consume the
the largest
thelargest portion
largestportion
portionof of this energy
of this energy
energy
(approximately 80%)
(approximately
(approximately 80%) [7].
80%) [7]. Therefore,
[7]. Therefore,
Therefore,itititisis essential
is essential
essentialto to search for
to search for solutions
solutions to to reduce
reduce the the energy
the energy
energy
consumption
consumption of
of buildings
buildings [8].
[8]. To
To overcome
overcome this
this trend,
trend, the
the same
same
consumption of buildings [8]. To overcome this trend, the same building services need to be achieved building
building services
services need
need to
to be
be achieved
achieved
usingless
using
using lessenergy.
less energy.This
energy. Thisrequires
This requiresthe
requires theapplication
the application
application of
ofof thethe
the concept
concept
concept ofofof energy
energy
energy efficiency,
efficiency,
efficiency,which which
which relates
relates to the
relates to
to
the performances
performances of of energy-consuming
energy-consuming systems.
systems. This This
concept
the performances of energy-consuming systems. This concept is defined in detail in [9].conceptis is defined
defined in in
detail detail
in in
[9]. [9].
There is
There
There is aaa major
is major possibility
major possibility of
possibility of decreasing
of decreasing the
decreasing the energy
the energy consumption
energy consumption of
consumption of both
of both new
both new and
new and existing
and existing
existing
buildings[10].
buildings
buildings [10].That
[10]. That led
led usustotothe
theconcept
conceptof retrofitting,which
ofretrofitting,
retrofitting, whichis
which isthe
is theprocess
the processof
process ofmodifying
of modifyingsomething
modifying something
something
(such
(such as
as aa computer,
computer, airplane,
airplane, or
or building)
building) with
with new
new or
or improved
improved
(such as a computer, airplane, or building) with new or improved parts or equipment, which were parts
parts or
or equipment,
equipment, which
which were
were
unavailable
unavailable or
unavailable or considered
or considered unnecessary
considered unnecessary
unnecessaryat at
atthethe
thetime time
timeof of manufacture.
ofmanufacture.
manufacture.RetrofittingRetrofitting
Retrofittingcan can
canalsoalso
alsomeanmean
meanadding adding
addinga
acomponent
component
acomponent or
oror feature
feature
feature thatthat
that ananan existing
existing
existing building
building
building did did
did notnot
nothavehave
have when
when
when first
first
first constructed
constructed
constructed [11].
[11].
[11]. Retrofitting
Retrofitting
Retrofitting is
is
one one
of of
the the
mainmain aspects
aspects that that
can can
be be directed
directed to to
achieveachievethe the
goalsgoals
of
is one of the main aspects that can be directed to achieve the goals of green buildings, as the ratio of of
green green buildings,
buildings, as theas the
ratio ratio
of theof
the existing
the existing
existing buildings
buildings
buildings isis larger
is larger larger
than the than
thannew theconstructions
the new constructions
new constructions [12]. According
[12]. According
[12]. According
to the Worldto the
to the World
Green
World Green
Building
Green
Building
Council, aCouncil,
green a green
building isbuilding
“a buildingis “a building
that, in its that,
design, in
Building Council, a green building is “a building that, in its design, construction, or operation,its design,
construction, construction,
or operation, or operation,
reduces or
reduces
eliminates or eliminates
negative negative
impacts, and impacts,
can createand can
positive create
impacts,positive
on
reduces or eliminates negative impacts, and can create positive impacts, on our climate and natural impacts,
our climate on our
and climate
natural and natural
environment.
environment.
Green buildings
environment. Green
Green buildings
preserve precious
buildings preserve
natural
preserve precious
resources
precious natural resources
and improve
natural resources our and
and improve
quality
improve our[13].
of life”
our qualityof
quality oflife”
life”
[13].
[13].
Building Retrofitting
Retrofits for buildings correspond to different goals, such as green energy and zero-emission
building retrofits. Green building retrofits improve the environmental response of a building, reduce
water consumption, and increase the comfort and value of the space with regard to several factors, such
as light pollution, air pollution, and noise pollution. On the other hand, energy building retrofits focus
on optimizing the energy performance of a building. It is important to initiate energy conservation
retrofits to reduce energy consumption to limit the cost of heating, cooling, and lighting in buildings as
well as to decrease the overall fossil fuel dependency [14].
There are numerous benefits of retrofitting buildings, which can be categorized into environmental
benefits, economic benefits, and social benefits. Environmental benefits include the lowering of
greenhouse emissions and improving water self-sufficiency. The economic benefits of retrofitting can
be one of the strongest means of convincing someone to consider retrofitting; an economic analysis
showing the payback period is usually prepared as a common indicator [15,16]. Moreover, retrofitting
is a more cost-effective means of increasing the asset value of an existing building than building a
new facility [17]. The most complicated part of building retrofitting is the determination of optimal
solutions and understanding the relationships through energy efficiency measures [18]. To reduce
the energy consumption of buildings, engineering methods/approaches have been developed, which
include building energy simulation software, such as eQUEST software, Energy Plus, and Ecotect.
Energy software deals with a building’s parameters and the surrounding environment; for example, the
operation schedules, the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, climate conditions,
shading information, insulation, and new building technologies [19,20].
As the energy consumption of the building sector in the UAE reached 80% [21], the UAE had to
release the Estidama code in 2009 [22]. This code underlines the importance of the right selection of
systems, energy, and materials [23]. The main factors that have been suggested in most studies are
glazing types (SHGC) [21], U-value [24], window-to-wall ratio (WWR), which introduces the suitable
natural light as well as the heat transmission through openings [25], orientation, and AC system
(HVAC) selection [26]. In the present study, the thermal performance of an office building located in the
UAE has been assessed using the eQUEST software by testing all of the above-mentioned parameters.
As the energy consumption in the office buildings is considered one of the highest compared to
the other building types with an annual energy consumption of 100 to 1000 kWh per square meter,
varying levels of consumption depend on various aspects, such as geographic location, type of building
envelope (including walls, roofs etc.), HVAC system, lighting, and operational schedules. A recent
paper dealing with building retrofit and sensitivity analysis in Abu Dhabi (UAE) reported that the
optimal strategies for given a case study villa are a cool roof, cool wall, seasonal energy efficiency
ratio (SEER), and atrium shades, which may lead to total energy savings of 25% [27]. Abdullah
and Alibaba reported that an integration of photovoltaics as responsive shading devices as a retrofit
strategy for an energy-efficient office building would have a huge impact on energy savings. Indeed,
this retrofit method has reduced total site energy consumption by 33.2% compared to the existing
building performance [28]. An analysis of energy efficiency measures and retrofitting solutions for
social housing buildings in Spain as a way to mitigate energy poverty was recently published by
Aranda et al. Indeed, they reported that energy simulation tools have proven to be affordable, fast,
and convenient for assessing the energy-saving potential of each measure implemented in a building.
However, the real savings values are usually 20–30% lower than the simulated results, mainly because
simulated demand is calculated to meet standard thermal comfort conditions, which are not always
met in this type of housing due to its economic limitations [29]. Another paper dealing with an
early-1950s building presents a measurement campaign to investigate the building’s characteristics
and its vulnerability. After that, some retrofit alternatives were simulated and compared by means of a
calibrated model. Concerning opaque surfaces, the effect of an external insulating coating of expanded
polystyrene was studied. The results show that a higher thermal insulation allows mitigation of the
wintry heat2020,
Sustainability dispersions, but,REVIEW
11, x FOR PEER on the other hand, it involves a cooling energy demand increase, which 4 of 17
can reach up to 45% [30].
2. Materials and Methods
2. Materials and Methods
The commercial sector accounts for a major share of global energy consumption. Most of this
energyTheiscommercial
used in cooling sectorandaccounts
artificialfor a major share
ventilation of global
systems. energy
For the consumption.
development Most of this
of energy-efficient
energy is used in cooling and artificial ventilation systems. For the development
structures, this paper provides an overview of building design criteria that can reduce the energy of energy-efficient
structures,
demand forthis thepaper
coolingprovides an overview
of commercial of building
buildings. designa criteria
By adopting thattocan
case study findreduce the energy
and analyze the
demand
most effective parameters to transform the existing building performance into that of a the
for the cooling of commercial buildings. By adopting a case study to find and analyze most
greener
effective
building,parameters
the approach to transform the existinganswers
of this methodology buildingthe
performance
questions ofinto
howthat
and ofwhy
a greener building,
[31]. These the
criteria
approach of this methodology answers the questions of how and why [31]. These
are based on the adoption of suitable parameters for building orientation—envelope system, HVAC criteria are based on
the adoption of suitable parameters for building orientation—envelope system,
mechanisms, shading, glazing, etc.—to examine how the operational and constructional strategies HVAC mechanisms,
shading,
led to anglazing,
efficient etc.—to
energy examine howasthe
structure operational
well and constructional
as to optimize implicationsstrategies
for futureled practices
to an efficient
and
energy structure
policymaking. as well as to optimize implications for future practices and policymaking.
2.1. Building Selection and Description

2.1. Building Selection and Description
Ajmal Makan is a real estate development company with an office building consisting of a ground
Ajmal Makan is a real estate development company with an office building consisting of a
floor oriented toward the sea in Sharjah, the third largest city in the UAE. The selection of the case
ground floor oriented toward the sea in Sharjah, the third largest city in the UAE. The selection of the
study was determined based on the accessibility of documents and information necessary for our
case study was determined based on the accessibility of documents and information necessary for
study. Drawings such as plans, elevations, sections, 3D models and construction drawings for HVAC
our study. Drawings such as plans, elevations, sections, 3D models and construction drawings for
systems, and electrical distribution enabled the construction of a digital model that is highly accurate
HVAC systems, and electrical distribution enabled the construction of a digital model that is highly
with respect to the real building. The electric bills served as a validation tool.
accurate with respect to the real building. The electric bills served as a validation tool.
The case study concerns a 2000 m2 office building (Figure 3) with over 40 employees. The activities
The case study concerns a 2000 m office building (Figure 3) with over 40 employees. The
2
carried out in the building pertain to real estate sales, engineering, marketing, and finance, and the
activities carried out in the building pertain to real estate sales, engineering, marketing, and finance,
building houses an exhibition hall with display models.
and the building houses an exhibition hall with display models.
Figure 3. Aerial
Figure 3. Aerial view
view of
of the
the Ajmal
Ajmal Makan
Makan office building in
office building in Sharjah,
Sharjah, UAE.
UAE.
The office building was constructed in 2017 and has a modern steel design with a full-height
full-height
glazing surrounding three sides of the building and exaggerated
exaggerated overhangs
overhangs ranging
ranging from
from 44 to
to 77 m.
m.
Only one wall (South-East) is made of concrete blocks;
blocks; however,
however, no proper insulation has
has been
been used.
used.
The AC system is a basic packaged DX series fan-powered a variable air volume
volume (VAV),
(VAV), as shown in
Table 1.
Table 1.
Table 1. Case study description of Ajmal Makan office building.
Building Type Office Building
Total area 2000 m2
Floor number 1 floor
Windows 91% of the windows in three directions and

0% in the west direction
Walls exterior finish on 8” concrete blocks with no
insulation; interior finish of fish plaster
U-value = 2.49 W/m2 K
Table 1. Case study description of Ajmal Makan office building.
Building Type Office Building

Total area 2000 m2
Sustainability 2020,
Floor11,number
x FOR PEER REVIEW 1 floor 5 of 17
Windows 91% of the windows in three directions and 0% in the 2west direction
Roof construction U-value = 1.0 W/m K
Walls exterior finish on 8” concrete blocks with no insulation; interior
Floor construction finish of fishslab on grade,
plaster = 2.49 W/m
unheated,
U-value 2K
exposed, or tiled
Roof construction
Natural ventilation U-value = 1.0 W/m2None
K
Floor construction slab on grade, unheated, exposed, or tiled
Heating source None
Natural ventilation None
Cooling: air conditioning
Heating source packaged
NoneDX series fan powered VAV
no reheat
Cooling: air conditioning packaged DX series fan powered VAV no reheat
Operable shading overhangs East 7 m/South 4 m/North 4 m
Operable shading overhangs East 7 m/South 4 m/North 4 m
According to the electric bill shown in Figure 4, the total consumption for July was 17,120 kWh.
According to the electric bill shown in Figure 4, the total consumption for July was 17,120 kWh. The
The electric bill consumption during this month was considered for the validation of the simulation
electric bill consumption during this month was considered for the validation of the simulation model.
model.
Figure 4.
Figure 4. July
July electric
electric authority
authority bill
bill for
for the
the Ajmal
Ajmal Makan
Makan office
officebuilding.
building.
2.2.
2.2. Weather
Weather Data
Data Analysis
Analysis
The
The Abu
Abu Dhabi
Dhabi weather
weather data
data were
were used
used for
forthis
thisstudy.
study.Using
Usingthe
theClimate
ClimateConsultant
Consultant software
software
provided
providedususwith
withvaluable
valuableinformation
informationthat
thathelped
helpedus usto
tounderstand
understandthe
thedesign
designintent
intentof
of the
the building
building
and
and guided
guided us
us toward
toward different
differentalternatives.
alternatives. The
The average
average minimum
minimum and
and maximum
maximum temperatures
temperatures
during
during the
theyear
yearare
areshown
shownininFigure
Figure5A.
5A.The
Theaverage
averagerelative
relativehumidity
humidityisisalso
alsoshown
shownininFigure
Figure5B.
5B.
(A)
2.2. Weather Data Analysis
The Abu Dhabi weather data were used for this study. Using the Climate Consultant software
provided us with valuable information that helped us to understand the design intent of the building
Sustainability
and guided2020, 12, 2573 different alternatives. The average minimum and maximum temperatures
us toward 6 of 16
during the year are shown in Figure 5A. The average relative humidity is also shown in Figure 5B.
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(A)
(B)
(B)
Figure
Figure 5.5.(A)
Figure5. (A) Average
(A)Average min
Averagemin and
minand max
andmax temperatures;
maxtemperatures; (B)
temperatures;(B) average
(B)average relative
averagerelative humidity
relativehumidity in
humidityin Sharjah,
inSharjah, UAE.
Sharjah,UAE.
UAE.
The
The Revit
TheRevit software
Revitsoftware
softwarewaswas used
wasused to
usedto determine
todetermine the
determinethe sun’s
thesun’s path
sun’spath in
pathin the
inthe summer
thesummer months
summermonths for
monthsfor the
forthe selected
theselected
selected
building,
building, presenting
building,presenting
presentingthethe orientation,
theorientation, sun
orientation,sun path,
sunpath, wind,
path,wind, temperature,
wind,temperature, and
temperature,and comfort
andcomfort hours
comforthours throughout
hoursthroughout
throughoutthe the
the
year,
year, as
year, as shown
as shown
shown inin Figure 6. The
in Figure 6. The climate
Theclimate is hot
climateisishot and
hotand humid,
andhumid, with
humid,with
withanan average
anaverage temperature
averagetemperature
temperatureof of 36
of36 ◦
°C
36°CCin in
in
summer
summer
summerand and 19.5
and19.5
19.5°C◦
°C in
Cin winter.
inwinter.
winter.
Figure 6.
Figure 6. Revit
Revit model
model at
at111pm
modelat pm
pmonon April
onApril 28,
April28, presenting
28,presenting the
presentingthe orientation,
theorientation, sun
orientation,sun path,
sunpath, wind,
path,wind, temperature,
wind,temperature,
temperature,
and
and comfort hours throughoutand comfort
thecomfort hours throughout
year. hours throughout the
the year.
year.
The psychrometric
The
The psychrometricchart
psychrometric chartof
chart of Abu
of Abu Dhabi,
Abu Dhabi, as
Dhabi, as shown
as shown in
shown in Figure
in Figure 7,
Figure 7, provides
7, provides detailed
provides detailed information
detailed information
information
regarding different
regarding
regarding different alternatives
different alternatives
alternatives for
for achieving
for achieving thermal
achieving thermalcomfort
thermal comfortin
comfort inspaces.
in spaces.As
spaces. Aswith
As withall
with allHVAC
all HVACsystems,
HVAC systems,a
systems,
VAV
aa VAV system
VAV system must
system must be
must be designed
be designed
designed toto provide
to provide indoor
provide indoor conditions
indoor conditions that
conditions that are
that are within
are within a certain
within aa certain comfort
certain comfort
comfort zone.zone.
zone.
Psychrometric charts
Psychrometric charts
Psychrometric are
charts are used
are used
used toto determine
to determine
determine whichwhich parameters
which parameters
parameters mustmust
must bebe maintained
be maintained
maintained in in order
in order
order to to obtain
to obtain
obtain
conditions
conditions within
within said
said comfort
comfort zones.
zones. For
For the
the psychrometric
psychrometric chart
chart shown
shown
conditions within said comfort zones. For the psychrometric chart shown below, a VAV system below,
below, a a VAV
VAV system
system
would need
would need toto maintain
maintain aa dry
dry bulb
bulb temperature
temperature of of approximately
approximately 75–85
75–85 ººF,
F, aa wet
wet bulb
bulb temperature
temperature
of approximately 55–65 ºF, and a relative humidity of approximately 30–70%.
of approximately 55–65 ºF, and a relative humidity of approximately 30–70%. A second parameter A second parameter
that VAV
that VAV systems
systems must
must take
take into
into account
account isis the
the change
change inin air
air velocity
velocity in
in aa space.
space. Air
Air velocities
velocities are
are
constantly changing
constantly changing and
and can
can play
play aa huge
huge role
role inin properly
properly oror improperly
improperly conditioning
conditioning aa space.
space. AsAs
shown in the chart below, various types of spaces have various changes in
shown in the chart below, various types of spaces have various changes in air velocity [32]. air velocity [32].
would need to maintain a dry bulb temperature of approximately 75–85 ºF, a wet bulb temperature of
approximately 55–65 ºF, and a relative humidity of approximately 30–70%. A second parameter that
VAV systems must take into account is the change in air velocity in a space. Air velocities are constantly
changing and can play a huge role in properly or improperly conditioning a space. As shown in the
chart below, various types of spaces have various changes in air velocity [32].
Sustainability 2020, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 7 of 17
Figure 7.7.Psychrometric
Figure Psychrometric chart
chart of Dhabi
of Abu Abu presenting
Dhabi presenting theofnumbers
the numbers of and
comfortable comfortable and
uncomfortable
uncomfortable hours during
hours during the year [32]. the year [32].
3. Energy Simulations
3.1. Real Case

3.1. Real Case Simulation
Simulation
First,
First, the
the simulation
simulation was
wascarried
carriedout
outon
onaareal
realcase.
case.The
Thedata
dataofofthe
thebuilding,
building,asasshown
shownininTable 1,
Table
were used, and the electric consumption was computed using eQUEST simulation
1, were used, and the electric consumption was computed using eQUEST simulation software and software and then
compared with the
then compared electric
with bill provided
the electric by the management
bill provided office of the
by the management building.
office of the Table 2 shows
building. Tablethe2
energy consumption for the selected building during all of the months for space cooling,
shows the energy consumption for the selected building during all of the months for space cooling, heat rejection,
ventilation fans,ventilation
heat rejection, mechanicalfans,
equipment, and area
mechanical lights, then
equipment, andproviding the total
area lights, then consumption
providing the during
total
the year, which
consumption is 167,380
during kWh.which is 167,380 kWh.
the year,
Table 2.2. Real

Table Real case
case simulation
simulation results:
results: The
The energy
energy consumption
consumption of of the
the Ajmal
Ajmal Makan
Makan office
office building
building
during year (kWh ×
during the year (kWh × 1000) depending on space cooling, heat rejection, ventilation fans, mechanical
the 1000) depending on space cooling, heat rejection, ventilation fans, mechanical
equipment,
equipment, andand area
area lighting.
lighting.
RealCase
Real Case Jan
Jan FebFeb MarMar AprApr May
May JunJun Jul
Jul Aug
Aug Sep
Sep Oct
Oct Nov
Nov Dec
Dec Total
Total
Space Cool 0.59 0.75 1.42 4.2 5.29 5.63 6.26 6.23 5.6 4.98 1.46 0.91 43.32
Space Cool 0.59 0.75 1.42 4.2 5.29 5.63 6.26 6.23 5.6 4.98 1.46 0.91 43.32
Heat Reject 0.06 0.06 0.08 0.2 0.2 0.19 0.2 0.2 0.19 0.2 0.08 0.08 1.76
Heat Reject 0.06 0.06 0.08 0.2 0.2 0.19 0.2 0.2 0.19 0.2 0.08 0.08 1.76
Vent. Fans 0.72 0.76 1.23 3.42 3.61 3.47 3.61 3.61 3.47 3.6 1.17 0.87 29.55
Vent. Fans 0.72 0.76 1.23 3.42 3.61 3.47 3.61 3.61 3.47 3.6 1.17 0.87 29.55
Misc. Equip 4.52 4.13 4.63 4.57 4.63 4.46 4.63 4.63 4.46 4.63 4.24 4.63 46.7
Misc.
Area Equip
Lights 4.52
3.59 4.133.3 4.63
3.72 4.57
3.02 4.63
3.03 4.46
2.91 4.63
3.03 4.63
3.03 4.46
2.91 4.63
3.03 4.24
3.32 4.63
3.72 46.7
38.62
AreaTotal
Lights 3.59
9.48 3.38.99 3.72
11.08 3.02
15.4 3.03
16.76 2.91
16.67 3.03
17.72 3.03
17.7 2.91
16.64 3.03
16.44 3.32
10.28 3.72
10.21 38.62
167.38
Total 9.48 8.99 11.08 15.4 16.76 16.67 17.72 17.7 16.64 16.44 10.28 10.21 167.38
Simulation Validation
Simulation
Once theValidation
simulation of the real case was run, we compared the hottest month’s (July) results with
the electric bill of the same of
Once the simulation month. This
the real waswas
case a validation
run, we step to ensure
compared the that the building
hottest month’s was modeled
(July) results
with the electric bill of the same month. This was a validation step to ensure that the building was
modeled properly. The error ratio was 3.3%, which is considered to be reasonable. The validation
ratio was calculated using the following equation.
17120 (kWh)
3.3% = 100 − ( ) × 100 (1)
17720 (kWh)
properly. The error ratio was 3.3%, which is considered to be reasonable. The validation ratio was
calculated using the following equation.
!
17120 (kWh)
3.3% = 100 − × 100 (1)
17720 (kWh)
3.2. Alternative Selection

While retrofitting an existing building, there are two main components to consider: Building
envelope and HVAC system; these include window-to-wall ratio, wall and roof insulation, glazing
and frame type, and overhang for the building envelope, as well as heating and cooling sources and
operation schedule for the HVAC system.
Base Case Simulation (Modified Real Case)

The real case was modified because of an obvious design issue that, once altered, will drastically
reduce the energy consumption. The envelope of the building is made mostly of glass, which allows
the transfer of a large amount of heat. As it is located in a very hot region, the reduction of glazing in
the façade naturally improves the performance of the building. The case study’s WWR, as shown in
Table 3, was carefully calculated using the following equation.
 
Glazing area m2
P
 
WWR (%) =  P (2)
 
 Gross Exterior wall area (m2 ) 

Table 3. Base case window-to-wall ratio (WWR) calculation.
Elevation Glazing Area (m2 ) Elevation (m2 ) WWR (%)

North 424 464 91.3
East 132.5 145 91.3
South 424 464 91.3
West 0 145 0
The result was much higher than the recommended value, with an average of 91% for the three
elevations comprising the North, the East, and the South, and 0% for the West elevation. According to
ASHRAE 90.1-2007, the ideal WWR is 24% of the wall [33]. To achieve this value, the window size was
changed, as shown in Table 4, and the building took a new form, as shown in Figure 8.
Table 4. Modified case window to wall ratio (WWR) calculation.
Ideal WWR is 24% by Ashrae [33]

Elevation Glazing area (m2 ) Elevation (m2 ) WWR (%)
North 111.36 464 24
East 34.8 145 24
South 111.36 464 24
West 34.8 145 24
Ideal WWR is 24% by Ashrae [33]
Elevation Glazing area (m2) Elevation (m2) WWR (%)
North 111.36 464 24
East 34.8 145 24
South 111.36 464 24
West 34.8 145 24
(A) (B)
Figure 8. 3D
3D modeling
modeling of the Ajmal Makan office building: (A)
(A) WWR real case; (B) WWR base case.
After changing the WWR of the real case, the base-case energy simulation indicated that the
building would be 16% more energy efficient, as shown in Figure 9, with a 140,710 kWh consumption
consumption
rate, as indicated in Table 5. The modified building was then considered as a base case for the rest of
the simulation.
Figure9.9.Yearly
Figure Yearlyenergy
energyconsumption
consumptionfor
forthe
thereal
realcase
caseand
andbase
basecase
casemodified.
modified.
Table 5. Base-case energy consumption (kWh × 1000) (real case modified with the new WWR).
Table 5. Base-case energy consumption (kWh × 1000) (real case modified with the new WWR).
Base Case Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Total
Base Case Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Total
Space Cool 0.47 0.55 1.08 3.46 4.37 4.68 5.22 5.2 4.67 4.13 1.67 0.63 36.14
Space Cool 0.47 0.55 1.08 3.46 4.37 4.68 5.22 5.2 4.67 4.13 1.67 0.63 36.14
Heat Reject. 0.06 0.05 0.08 0.18 0.18 0.18 0.18 0.18 0.18 0.18 0.16 0.08 1.68
Heat
Vent.Reject.
Fans 0.06
0.6 0.05
0.6 0.08
0.99 0.18
2.92 0.18
3.05 0.18
2.94 0.18
3.05 0.18
3.05 0.18 3.05
2.94 0.18 1.560.16 0.08
0.67 1.68
25.44
Vent.Equip.
Misc. Fans 0.6
3.01 0.6
2.74 0.99
3.06 2.92
4.57 3.05
4.63 2.94
4.46 3.05
4.63 3.05
4.63 2.94 4.63
4.46 3.05 2.851.56 3.06
0.67 46.7
25.44
Misc. Equip.
Area Lights 3.01
1.99 2.74
1.83 3.06
2.06 4.57
3.02 4.63
3.03 4.46
2.91 4.63
3.03 4.63
3.03 4.46 3.03
2.91 4.63 1.852.85 2.06
3.06 30.75
46.7
Total
Area Lights 6.13
1.99 5.77
1.83 7.26
2.06 14.15
3.02 15.27
3.03 15.17
2.91 16.11
3.03 16.1
3.03 15.15
2.91 15.03
3.03 8.091.85 6.49
2.06 140.71
30.75
Total 6.13 5.77 7.26 14.15 15.27 15.17 16.11 16.1 15.15 15.03 8.09 6.49 140.71
3.3. Retrofitting Alternatives
3.3. Retrofitting Alternatives
Six retrofitting parameters were studied and applied to the base case. Different alternatives—
changing the orientation,
Six retrofitting the U-value
parameters wereofstudied
the roof,and
the applied
U-value to
of the
the wall,
base the glazing,
case. the alternatives—
Different shading, and
the AC systems—were run on the eQUEST software, and the energy consumptions for
changing the orientation, the U-value of the roof, the U-value of the wall, the glazing, the each case were
shading,
obtained
and the ACandsystems—were
then comparedrun withonothers.
the eQUEST software, and the energy consumptions for each case
were obtained and then compared with others.
3.3.1. Orientation
The
3.3.1. orientation of the building on the site affects the amount of energy consumed by the building.
Orientation
Four different scenarios were applied, as shown in Table 6.
The orientation of the building on the site affects the amount of energy consumed by the
building. Four different scenarios were applied, as shown in Table 6.
Table 6. Orientation alternatives with energy consumption (kWh × 1000).
Orientation Total Energy Consumption kWh ×1000

Base case NNW 140.71
East-South-East 145.59
South-South-West 143.99
Table 6. Orientation alternatives with energy consumption (kWh × 1000).
Orientation Total Energy Consumption kWh × 1000

Base case NNW 140.71
East-South-East 145.59
South-South-West 143.99
West-North-West 145.33
The building is oriented 22◦ from the north, indicated on a compass, as the initial orientation
(Figure 10). Different angles were applied to the new base case. The results showed that that the
current orientation is optimal.
Figure
Figure 10.
10. Building
Building orientation,
orientation, 22°
22◦ from
from the
the north,
north, indicated
indicated on
on aa compass
compass (Google).
(Google).
3.3.2. Roof
3.3.2. Roof
The roof
The roof represents
representsthethemost
mostexposed
exposedelement
elementofofthethe envelope
envelope of of a building.
a building. TheThe
casecase study
study has
has a completely flat roof that is mainly composed of heavyweight (HW) concrete
a completely flat roof that is mainly composed of heavyweight (HW) concrete with half-inch with half-inch
expanded polystyrene
polystyrene with
with aa U-Value
U-Value ofof 11 W/m 2 K. The proposed alternatives include four-inch
expanded W/m² K. The proposed alternatives include four-inch
expanded polystyrene,
expanded polystyrene, four-
four- and
and six-inch
six-inch polystyrene,
polystyrene, four-inch
four-inch expanded
expanded polyurethane,
polyurethane, and
and three
three
sizes of preformed roof insulators, as shown in Table
sizes of preformed roof insulators, as shown in Table 7. 7.
Table 7.
Table Roof alternatives
7. Roof alternatives with
with energy
energy consumption (kWh ×
consumption (kWh 1000).
× 1000).
Roof U-Value Total Energy Consumption
Total Energy Decrease Energy
Construction
Type (W/m2U-Value
K) (kWh × 1000) (%)
Decrease
Roof Type Construction Consumption
1
1 inch cement mortar, 0.164 ft, HW concrete, 1/2
1
(W/m2 K) 140.71× 1000)
Energy- (%)
inch expanded polystyrene, 4 inch HW ConcBlk (kWh
1 inch
1 inch cement cement
mortar, 0.164mortar, 0.164 ft,
ft HW concrete, HW
4 inch
2 0.27 130.19 7.47
1 expanded polystyrene,
concrete, ½ inch 4expanded
inch HW ConcBlk
polystyrene, 1 140.71 -
3
4 inch
1 inch cement mortar, 0.164HW ConcBlk
ft HW concrete, 4 inch
0.23 129.64 7.86
polystyrene, 4 inch mortar,
1 inch cement HW ConcBlk
0.164 ft HW
4 2 1 inch cement mortar,
concrete, 0.164expanded
4 inch ft HW concrete, 6 inch
polystyrene, 0.15 0.27 130.19
128.84 7.47
8.43
polystyrene, 4 inch HW ConcBlk
4 inch HW ConcBlk
1 inch cement mortar, 0.164 ft HW concrete, 4 inch
5 1 inch cement mortar, 0.164 ft HW 0.19 129.24 8.15
expanded polyurethane, 4 inch HW ConcBlk
3 concrete, 4 inch polystyrene, 4 inch HW 0.23 129.64 7.86
6 ConcBlk 0.9 136.53 2.97
preformed roof insulator, 4 inch HW ConcBlk
1 inch cement mortar, 0.164 ft HW
7 4 concrete, 6 inch polystyrene, 4 inch HW 0.6 0.15 133.89
128.84 4.84
8.43
preformed roof insulator, 4 inch HW ConcBlk
1 inch cement mortar, 0.164 ConcBlk
ft HW concrete, 3 inch
8 0.45 132.38 5.91
1 inch
preformed cement mortar,
roof insulator, 4 inch HW0.164 ft HW
ConcBlk
5 concrete, 4 inch expanded 0.19 129.24 8.15
polyurethane, 4 inch HW ConcBlk
Based on the results summarized in the table above, the roof type 4 is found to be the best
alternative compared with other roof types. Indeed, using this roof would lead to energy savings of
6 concrete, 1 inch preformed roof 0.9 136.53 2.97
8.43% compared with the base case.
insulator, 4 inch HW ConcBlk
insulator, 4 inch HW ConcBlk
3.3.3. Walls
As previously mentioned, the WWR of the real-case building was only 9%, as the three full
facades are entirely glazed. This left us with only one wall of four-inch hollow concrete blocks with no
insulation material, covered with plaster board on both sides. As mentioned previously, the real case
was modified, and the new wall ratio was 76%.
The 19 alternatives were tested on the base case, as shown in Table 8. First, we increased the size of
the block work from the original 4 to 6, 8, and 12 inches. Then, we added different types of insulation:
Polystyrene with three different thicknesses, expanded polystyrene in three sizes, polyurethane in
three sizes, expanded polyurethane in three sizes, mineral wool fiber in two sizes, and cellulose in two
sizes; the details are given in Table 8. The simulation showed that the best option for the walls is 0.04 ft
plaster board, 0.299 ft HW Concrete block (ConcBlk), 6-inch polyurethane, 0.333 ft HW ConcBlk, and
0.042 ft plaster board, which decreased the energy consumption of the building by 4.57%.
Table 8. Wall alternatives with energy consumption (kWh × 1000).
Wall U-Value Total Energy Consumption Decrease in

Construction
Type (W/m2 K) (kWh × 1000) Energy (%)
Plaster board, 4 inch HW ConcBlk, no insulation, 4 inch HW
1 2.49 140.71 -
ConcBlk, plaster board
2 2.1 139.32 0.98
3 1.82 138.68 1.44
4 1.5 138.4 1.64
0.04 ft plaster board, 0.299 ft HW ConcBlk, polystyrene 4 inch,
5 0.245 134.83 4.17
0.333 ft HW ConcBlk, 0.042 plaster board
6 0.198 134.59 4.35
7 0.169 134.46 4.44
0.04 ft plaster board, 0.299 ft HW ConcBlk, expanded
8 0.88 136.99 2.64
polystyrene 1 inch, 0.333 ft HW ConcBlk, 0.042 plaster board
9 0.536 135.82 3.47
10 0.295 134.9 4.12
0.04 ft plaster board, 0.299 ft HW ConcBlk, polyurethane
11 0.26 134.85 4.16
3 inch, 0.333 ft HW ConcBlk, 0.042 plaster board
12 0.164 134.46 4.44
13 0.141 134.36 4.51
14 0.66 136.27 3.15
polyurethane 1 inch, 0.333 ft HW ConcBlk, 0.042 plaster board
15 0.38 135.28 3.86
16 0.2 134.62 4.33
0.04 ft plaster board, 0.299 ft HW ConcBlk, mineral wood,
17 0.43 135.47 3.72
fiber 3-1/2 inch, 0.333 ft HW ConcBlk, 0.042 plaster board
0.04 ft plaster board, 0.299 ft HW ConcBlk, mineral wood,
18 0.29 135.96 3.37
fiber 5-1/2 inch, 0.333 ft HW ConcBlk, 0.042 plaster board
0.04 ft plaster board, 0.299 ft HW ConcBlk, cellulose 3-1/2 inch,
19 0.36 135.2 3.91
0.04 ft plaster board, 0.299 ft HW ConcBlk, cellulose 5-1/2 inch,
20 0.24 134.74 4.24
Based on the results summarized in the table above, the wall type 13 is the best alternative
compared with other wall types. Indeed, with wall type 13, 4.57% of energy is saved compared with
the base case.
3.3.4. Glazing and Frame Types

The glazing system of the Ajmal Makan building is made of a double reflective clear glass with a
quarter-inch air gap with a fixed aluminum frame. The WWR in these calculations is the modified
24%, with the same properties as those of the real case. All of the alternatives were tested and run by
eQUEST, which showed that the best option for improving the building’s performance is a double
reflective glass with a half-inch air gap. The annual energy decrease was 0.89%. All of the alternatives
are listed in Table 9.
Table 9. Window alternatives with energy consumption (kWh × 1000).
Window Total Energy Consumption Decrease Energy

Construction
Alternative (kWh × 1000) (%)
Double reflective clear 1/4 inch,
1 140.71 Base case
1/4 air gap
2 Single clear 159.35 −13.24
3 Single reflective 143.43 −1.93
4 Single low-E 155.19 −10.29
5 Double clear 151.7 −7.81
6 Double reflective 139.51 0.85
7 Double low-E 152.57 −8.42
8 Triple clear 150.19 −6.73
9 Triple clear 147.8 5.04
3.3.5. Shading
The building is characterized by unique cantilevered overhangs, which serve as a shading system.
We ran the simulation of the building without any overhang and found out that they contribute to
energy savings of 1.99%. An additional 3 m in the North-West and South-East elevations led to a minor
decrease of 0.19%. Table 10 presents the orientation and depth of the overhang alternatives.
Table 10. Shading alternatives with energy consumption (kWh × 1000) (eQUEST software).
Overhang Total Energy Consumption Decrease Energy

Orientation Depth (m)
Type (kWh × 1000) (%)
1 SW, NE, NW, SE 0, 7, 4, 4 140.71 Real case
2 SW, NE, NW, SE 0, 0, 0, 0 143.59 −2.05%
3 SW, NE, NW, SE 0, 7, 7, 7 140.52 0.13%
3.3.6. HVAC System

It is also important to choose the right AC equipment for the right space for efficient energy saving.
The Ajmal Makan building has a DX Series Fan-Powered VAV for cooling. Different systems were
tested on the base case, which showed that Packaged VAV would save 8.34% of energy due to the
better and more rational control of the amount of the air flow needed to satisfy the thermal comfort
requirements in the space. Indeed, the electric power needed to run the ventilation fans is much
higher in case of the package DX Series Fan-Powered VAV (25,440 kWh) compared with Packaged
VAV (10,560 kWh). Table 11 shows the effects of different systems on the energy consumption of
this building
Table 11. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) alternatives with energy consumption
(kWh × 1000) (eQUEST software).
Total Energy Consumption Decrease Energy

HVAC Cooling Source System
(kWh × 1000) (%)
1 DX Coils DX series fan-powered VAV 140.71 Base case
2 DX Coils Packaged VAV 129.05 8.28
3 Chilled water coils Standard VAV 196.22 −39.44
4 Chilled water coils Series fan-powered VAV 193.51 −37.52
5 Chilled water coils Single-zone air handler 217.37 −54.48
4. Discussion
In the previous section, different alternatives were tested to determine the optimal alternatives
that would improve the building’s performance in terms of energy saving. In Table 12, a matrix of the
optimum alternatives is presented, which we refer to as the best case.
Table 12. Optimum alternatives with total energy consumption (best-case alternative).
Total Energy Consumption Decrease Energy

Element Description
(kWh × 1000) (%)
Base case 140.71 -
0.04 ft plaster board, 0.299 ft HW ConcBlk,
Wall polystyrene 6 inch, 0.333 ft HW ConcBlk, 134.36 4.51
0.042 plaster board
1 inch cement mortar, 0.166 ft HW concrete,
Roof 128.84 8.43
6 inch polystyrene, 4 inch HW ConcBlk
Double reflective 1/2 inch air gap with fixed
Glazing and frame 139.51 0.85
aluminum with break
HVAC DX coils, packaged VAV 129.05 8.28
Shading device Overhang, SW = 0, NE = 7, NW = 7, SE = 7 140.52 0.13
Table 13 presents the energy distribution breakdown of the best case. The total annual consumption
of the best case is 97,570 kWh, which is 30.6% lower than that of the base case (140,710 kWh), with
energy savings of 43,130 kWh per year.
Table 13. Energy distribution breakdown of the best case.
Total kWh ×
Best Case Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
1000
Space Cool 0.25 0.35 0.66 1.92 2.41 2.73 3.17 3.18 2.81 2.41 1.1 0.6 21.6
Heat Reject. 0.03 0.03 0.05 0.11 0.11 0.11 0.11 0.11 0.11 0.11 0.09 0.05 1.03
Vent. Fans 0.05 0.1 0.26 0.71 0.71 0.69 0.71 0.71 0.69 0.71 0.32 0.26 5.93
Misc. Equip. 3.01 2.74 3.06 4.57 4.63 4.46 4.63 4.63 4.46 4.63 2.85 3.06 46.7
Area Lights 1.45 1.33 1.49 2.19 2.2 2.12 2.2 2.2 2.12 2.2 1.35 1.49 22.32
Total 4.79 4.54 5.52 9.5 10.06 10.1 10.82 10.84 10.18 10.06 5.71 5.46 97.57
By comparing the obtained results with those of the real case, we can conclude that the best case is
41.7% more efficient than the real case without the modified WWR. The simulation results and change
ratios are presented in Table 14.
Total 4.79 4.54 5.52 9.5 10.06 10.1 10.82 10.84 10.18 10.06 5.71 5.46 97.57
By comparing the obtained results with those of the real case, we can conclude that the best case
is 41.7% more efficient than the real case without the modified WWR. The simulation results and
change ratios are presented in Table 14.
Table
Table 14. 14. Annual
Annual energy
energy consumptionratios
consumption ratios of
of the
thereal
realcase,
case,the base
the case,
base andand
case, the best case.case.
the best
Annual
AnnualEnergy
EnergyConsumption
Consumption(kWh × 1000)
(kWh ×1000) Decrease Ratio (%)
Decrease Ratio (%)
Real Real
CaseCase 167.38
167.38 - -
Base Case (modified)
Base Case (modified) 140.71
140.71 30.60 30.60
Best Case
Best Case 97.57
97.57 41.70 41.70
5. Conclusions
5. Conclusions
Among
Amongthethe
fivefive
selected
selectedcomponents,
components, aanew newroof
roofstructure
structure contributed
contributed the most
the most to the to the decrease
decrease in
in energy
energy consumption (approximately 38%). This is followed by a new HVAC system, which leads to aleads
consumption (approximately 38%). This is followed by a new HVAC system, which
to a 37%
37%decrease,
decrease, followed
followed by aby
newa wall
newtypewallwith
type with insulation,
insulation, resulting inresulting in a 20%
a 20% decrease. decrease. In
In addition,
a glazing change led to a minimal decrease of 4%, while a new overhang resulted
addition, a glazing change led to a minimal decrease of 4%, while a new overhang resulted in a 1% in a 1% decrease.
The results
decrease. are summarized
The results in the pie in
are summarized chart
theinpie
Figure
chart11.inItFigure
is then 11.
strongly recommended
It is then strongly to have the
recommended
building envelope (roof and walls) well insulated and to select the most efficient
to have the building envelope (roof and walls) well insulated and to select the most efficient AC system based on AC
the type of the building and its occupancy.
system based on the type of the building and its occupancy.
Figure
Figure11.
11.Best-case
Best-case retrofitting components.
retrofitting components.
The The software

software simulates
simulates fivemain
five maincategories,
categories, including
includingspace
spacecooling, heat
cooling, rejection,
heat ventilation
rejection, ventilation
fans, mechanical equipment, and area lighting. Figure 12 shows the different percentages
fans, mechanical equipment, and area lighting. Figure 12 shows the different percentages of energyof energy
consumption among the three schemes. Space cooling, ventilation fans, and area lighting have major
shares in electrical consumption. The building components referred to in these categories are the
building envelope and HVAC system, as mentioned earlier in the literature. Thus, in retrofitting
strategies, we have to select the most sensitive parameters, which have significant impact on lowering
energy consumption in buildings.
In conclusion, due to the location of the case study, the external weather (a harsh hot climate)
exerts a huge pressure on the HVAC systems in buildings as well as the exposed surfaces of the
buildings, such as roofs and walls. Therefore, it is important to design buildings by first studying the
climate, wall and roof types, and different systems, which will contribute significantly in reducing
the energy consumption. Moreover, the analysis of the cost of the implemented changes should be
evaluated and included in the overall cost of saving energy; this will be considered as a future step.
consumption among the three schemes. Space cooling, ventilation fans, and area lighting have major
shares in electrical consumption. The building components referred to in these categories are the
building envelope and HVAC system, as mentioned earlier in the literature. Thus, in retrofitting
Sustainability
strategies, we 12, 2573
2020,have 15 of 16
to select the most sensitive parameters, which have significant impact on lowering
energy consumption in buildings.
Figure 12. Yearly energy consumption for the real case, base case, and best case.
Figure 12. Yearly energy consumption for the real case, base case, and best case.
In conclusion, due to the location of the case study, the external weather (a harsh hot climate)
Author Contributions: Conceptualization, M.K., A.F.D., and S.A.; methodology, M.K., A.F.D., and S.A.; software,
exerts and
A.F.D. a huge
S.A.; pressure
validation,on the HVAC
A.F.D. and S.A.;systems in buildings
writing—review as wellM.K.
and editing, as the
andexposed surfaces ofM.K.;
A.F.D; supervision, the
buildings, such as roofs and walls. Therefore, it is important to design buildings by first studying the
project administration, M.K. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.
climate, wall
Funding: and roofreceived
This research types, no
and different
external systems, which will contribute significantly in reducing
funding.
the energy
Conflicts consumption.
of Interest: Moreover,
The authors declarethe analysis
no conflict of of the cost of the implemented changes should be
interest.
evaluated and included in the overall cost of saving energy; this will be considered as a future step.
References
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Keywords: low energy; retrofitting; sustainable design; buildings

Sustainability 2020, 12, 2573; doi:10.3390/su12062573 www.mdpi.com/journal/sustainability

2.1. Building Selection and Description

Table 1. Case study description of Ajmal Makan office building.

Building Type Office Building

Total area 2000 m2

Floor number 1 floor

Windows 91% of the windows in three directions and

Table 1. Case study description of Ajmal Makan office building.

Building Type Office Building

3.1. Real Case

Table 2.2. Real

3.2. Alternative Selection

Base Case Simulation (Modified Real Case)

Table 3. Base case window-to-wall ratio (WWR) calculation.

Elevation Glazing Area (m2 ) Elevation (m2 ) WWR (%)

Table 4. Modified case window to wall ratio (WWR) calculation.

Ideal WWR is 24% by Ashrae [33]

Table 6. Orientation alternatives with energy consumption (kWh × 1000).

Orientation Total Energy Consumption kWh ×1000

Table 6. Orientation alternatives with energy consumption (kWh × 1000).

Orientation Total Energy Consumption kWh × 1000

Table 8. Wall alternatives with energy consumption (kWh × 1000).

Wall U-Value Total Energy Consumption Decrease in

3.3.4. Glazing and Frame Types

Table 9. Window alternatives with energy consumption (kWh × 1000).

Window Total Energy Consumption Decrease Energy

Overhang Total Energy Consumption Decrease Energy

3.3.6. HVAC System

Total Energy Consumption Decrease Energy

Total Energy Consumption Decrease Energy

Table 13. Energy distribution breakdown of the best case.

The The software

13. World Green Building Council. Available online: https://www.worldgbc.org/about-us (accessed on

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