Optimization of Residential Indoor Thermal Environment by Passive Design and Mechanical Ventilation in Tropical Savanna Climate Zone in Nigeria, Africa

Tianyu Xi (), Salanke Umar Sa’ad, Xinyu Liu, Haibo Sun, Ming Wang and Fei Guo
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Tianyu Xi: School of Jangho Architecture, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110169, China
Salanke Umar Sa’ad: School of Jangho Architecture, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110169, China
Xinyu Liu: School of Jangho Architecture, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110169, China
Haibo Sun: School of Jangho Architecture, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110169, China
Ming Wang: School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Beijing 100044, China
Fei Guo: School of Architecture and Fine Art, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116023, China

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 3, 1-26

Abstract: Thermal comfort is a fundamental goal of architecture aiming at protecting individuals from harsh weather conditions. In Nigeria’s savanna climate zone, such as Kaduna, poor indoor thermal comfort leads to over-reliance on air-conditioning systems. There is limited research on the application of passive design strategies in the Nigerian savanna climate, which creates a barrier to their widespread implementation in residential buildings. In response to the increased awareness of climate change and the need for sustainable design, this study explores the potential of passive design strategies, focusing on the combination of rooftop insulation and reflective materials with mechanical ventilation as a means of improving indoor thermal comfort solutions. This study conducted a 3-day field experiment of typical dwellings in Kaduna, a major city in the Nigerian savanna climate zone. The data collected from this experiment served as the basis for a simulation study using EnergyPlus software, which tested and evaluated 3 different strategies: passive design (roof insulation + reflective materials), mechanical ventilation, and a combination of passive design and mechanical ventilation. This study highlights the potential for passive design strategies to provide a more sustainable, cost-effective solution, reducing dependence on air conditioning while supporting indoor comfort. Additionally, the research methodology and insights gained offer a basis for developing future building codes in Nigeria that emphasize sustainable practices. Such codes would guide architects, builders, and policymakers in designing homes that respond to local climate needs and align with broader sustainability goals. Further research could explore additional passive measures, including advanced window technologies, shading, and natural ventilation, to maximize sustainable residential design potential in tropical savanna climates.

Keywords: passive design; mechanical ventilation; indoor thermal environment; tropical savanna climate; Nigeria (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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