Evaluating Photovoltaic-Integrated Shading for Cooling Load Reduction and On-Site Power Generation in a Hot-Arid Office: A Design Builder Simulation in Muscat, Oman

International Journal of Civil Engineering
© 2025 by SSRG - IJCE Journal
Volume 12 Issue 6
Year of Publication : 2025
Authors : Malihe Taghipour
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How to Cite?

Malihe Taghipour, "Evaluating Photovoltaic-Integrated Shading for Cooling Load Reduction and On-Site Power Generation in a Hot-Arid Office: A Design Builder Simulation in Muscat, Oman," SSRG International Journal of Civil Engineering, vol. 12,  no. 6, pp. 251-262, 2025. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23488352/IJCE-V12I6P120

Abstract:

In a standard office prototype, this paper simulates a performance analysis of a PV-integrated shading system, investigating and aiming to minimize solar loads in Muscat, Oman. As a result, the research fulfils a key gap in the existing literature, namely by considering façade-integrated PV shading in the hot-arid context. This measure is insufficiently realized in Oman in the context of net-zero aspirations. The different shading geometries' thermal, daylighting autonomy, and energy yield implications were evaluated using Design Builder software and climate-specific data inputs. It has been found that properly designed PV shading systems can help reduce peak cooling loads remarkably and promote indoor comfort while maintaining the level of natural sunlight. In addition, the integrated panels contributed to the measurable solar production that offset cooling loads during midday hours. The findings of this study affirm the feasibility of PV-integrated shading as a dual-function and multifunctional approach: passive thermal control and active power generation. The recommendations are intended to assist architects and urban planners gradually applying these systems in the Oman context, towards the country’s ambitious renewable energy goals. The results highlight the merits of integrated envelope strategies in promoting climate-responsive and energy-efficient design for low-energy architecture in desert climates.

Keywords:

Photovoltaic shading, Hot-arid climate, Energy efficiency, Daylighting, Oman.

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