Draft:Solar study

3D solar study of a new construction to gain insight into daylight access, shadow effects, and energy potential

Solar study is the analysis of the position, movement, and influence of the sun on a specific location, building, or object over a certain period. The concept is mainly used within architecture, urban planning, and landscape architecture to gain insight into daylight access, shadow effects, and energy potential..

A solar study helps optimize designs with regard to daylighting, thermal comfort, and the placement of, for example, solar panels.

Purpose and application

A solar study is carried out to examine various aspects of sunlight:

• The amount of direct and indirect sunlight on a building or site;
• The length and direction of shadows throughout the day and seasons;
• The influence of surrounding buildings or objects on light access;
• The suitability of surfaces for solar energy.

Within architecture, a solar study is often used to improve living comfort, for example by optimally orienting living spaces toward the sun. In urban planning, it helps prevent excessive shadowing in public spaces.

Methods

There are several methods for conducting a solar study:

Manual analysis

Traditionally, sun path diagrams and scale models were used. The position of the sun at different times was projected to simulate shadows.

Digital simulation

Nowadays, solar studies are usually carried out using computer software. Programs can accurately calculate the sun's position based on:

• Geografic coordinates;
• Date and time;
• Orientation of the object.

Commonly used software packages include CAD and BIM programs, in which realistic light and shadow simulations are possible.

Sun position and factors

The outcome of a solar study is influenced by several factors:

• Latitude – determines the maximum height of the sun.
• Season – due to the tilt of the earth's axis, the sun's altitude changes throughout the year.
• Time of day – affects the direction and length of shadows.
• Environmental obstacles – such as buildings, trees, and terrain.

Practical applications

Solar studies are applied in various fields:

New construction

When purchasing a newly built home, the owner is required to assess from drawings whether sufficient sunlight will reach the garden, terrace, or balcony. Adequate daylight access and the prevention of overheating can also be considerations. A solar study can predict these factors in advance and help with the purchase or planning decisions.

Architecture

When designing buildings, attention is given to optimal daylight access and heat distribution. Large window areas are often oriented to the south, for example, to maximize passive solar gains and energy efficiency.

Urban planning

Municipalities use solar studies when assessing building plans to prevent new buildings from excessively shading existing homes or public spaces (for which sunlight regulations exist).

Sustainable energy

For the placement of solar panels, a solar study is essential to maximize yield and minimize shading losses caused by, for example, dormers or chimneys

Landscape architecture

When designing parks and gardens, consideration is given to sunny and shaded areas for planting and recreation.

See also

• Daylighting
• Shadow
• Solar energy
• Orientation

Literature

• Example of a solar study for a new construction project.
• Solar design of buildings for architects.