Integrating active and passive solar strategies in modular residential positive energy building in semi-arid climates: Insights from the TDART project

Abstract

The recent push for decarbonization in the construction sector aligns with Morocco’s national energy strategy, which promotes innovative and carbon-neutral buildings. The objective of the study was to evaluate the performance of an energy-efficient residential building, the TDART house, which integrates active and passive solar systems along with bioclimatic design to achieve a net-positive energy balance in a semi- arid climate. Using EnergyPlus and Dialux Evo software, the house’s energy performance across lighting, heating, cooling, and hygrothermal behavior was evaluated. Key strategies include a cool roof, optimized orientation, and natural ventilation (NV), resulting in significant annual energy savings, with insulation reducing heating and cooling demands by 40.28 % and 29.79 %, respectively. Experimental performance assessments demonstrated excellent hygrothermal comfort, keeping temperature and humidity within optimal ranges for 99 % and 70 % of the time. The energy-efficient LED lighting system provides high-quality interior lighting, with an average level of 450 lux. During the testing period, the building produced 304.45 kWh of solar energy while consuming 180.74 kWh, leading to a net-positive energy balance of 123.7 kWh. Occupant satisfaction analysis confirmed the building’s comfort and performance, reinforcing the study’s reliability. These findings highlight the TDART house’s potential as a practical, scalable solution for energy-efficient housing in North Africa’s hot climates, offering a replicable model for sustainable construction. By showcasing the TDART house as an innovative, net-positive energy prototype, this study supports Morocco’s sustainable housing initiatives and provides valuable insights for promoting green building practices across comparable climates.