Sustainable and Climate-Responsive Design in Mountainous Regions Using EPW Data and Climate Consultant Software (Case Study: Sanandaj City)

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Ph.D. Student in Climatology, Faculty of Planning and Environmental Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran

2 Ph.D. Student in Climatology, Faculty of Earth Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran

3 Phd Student in Geology, Faculty of Earth Sciences, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran

4 Department of Remote sensing and geographic information system, Dez.C., Islamic Azad University, Dezful, Iran

5 Department of Geography and Urban Planning, Mahs.C., Islamic Azad University, Mahshahr, Iran

6 Ph.D. Student in Climatology, Faculty of Humanities, University of Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran

10.22034/gp.2025.66299.3376

Abstract

This research was conducted with the aim of investigating and analyzing the climatic factors affecting architectural design in mountainous regions, focusing on the city of Sanandaj. In this study, standard EnergyPlus Weather (EPW) climate data were utilized over a 14-year period (2009 to 2023). The research methodology was based on the parametric analysis of hourly climate data in accordance with ASHRAE Standard 55 and the utilization of the Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) model for thermal comfort assessment. Meteorological parameters (air temperature, soil temperature, dew point temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction, and solar radiation) were analyzed using Climate Consultant software, and the results were presented in the form of bar, line, and scatter plots. The results indicated that the climate of Sanandaj, with its hot summers and cold winters, necessitates specific strategies in architectural design. The cold months of the year (January, February, November, and December) require heating systems, while the hot months (July and August) require cooling systems. Additionally, the months of March, April, and October, with the highest wind speeds, have the potential for natural ventilation. Based on the research findings, strategies such as the use of high thermal mass materials, passive solar systems, proper insulation, night ventilation, and adjustable shading devices are proposed. These strategies can help optimize energy consumption and provide thermal comfort for residents in the mountainous climate of Sanandaj.

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