Synergistic Optimization of Building Energy Use and PV Power Generation: Quantifying the Role of Urban Block Typology and PV Shading Devices

Shen Xu, Junhao Hou, Mengju Xie (), Yichen Dong, Chen Yang, Huan Huang, Jingze Liao and Wei Luo
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Shen Xu: School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
Junhao Hou: School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
Mengju Xie: Department of Environmental Design, School of Fine Arts, South-Central Minzu University, Wuhan 430074, China
Yichen Dong: School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
Chen Yang: Department of Environmental Design, School of Fine Arts, South-Central Minzu University, Wuhan 430074, China
Huan Huang: Wuhan Planning and Design Institute, Wuhan 430014, China
Jingze Liao: School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
Wei Luo: School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 21, 1-40

Abstract: In high-density cities, integrating photovoltaic shading devices (PVSDs) with urban block typology optimization is crucial for low-carbon development, yet the understanding of their synergistic effects remains limited. This study develops a novel multi-scale evaluation framework that bridges block-building hierarchies to address this research gap. Through parametric modeling, this study coupled 27 representative office block morphologies with 18 PVSDs in Wuhan, a prototype city for China’s hot-summer–cold-winter climate zone, systematically generating 486 scenarios for comprehensive evaluation. Using Rhino–Grasshopper (7.0) with Ladybug (1.7), Honeybee (1.6), and EnergyPlus (9.4), we then examined urban block typology-PVSDs interactions across these scenarios. Our findings demonstrate that coordinated block typology and PVSD variables serve as critical determinants of energy-performance synergy. High-Rise Hybrid blocks emerge as the superior configuration for integrated performance, achieving maximal passive energy savings, optimal renewable energy utilization, and substantial carbon reduction. PVSDs that are 0.4 m in width, with specific distance-to-width ratios, yield the highest integrated benefits. This work advances sustainable urban design by establishing a morphology–energy nexus framework, providing architects and urban planners with actionable strategies for climate-responsive design in similar regions, with direct implications for maximizing energy–PV synergy through morphology-aware design approaches.

Keywords: urban block typology; photovoltaic shading devices (PVSDs); office building; energy use intensity (EUI); PV power generation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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