Generating building envelopes using multi-objective optimization techniques

This thesis concerns the application of different multi-objective optimization (MOO) methods and strategies for finding the optimal envelope for a given building plot and lighting performance indicators. More specifically, the PV potential and daylighting potential of the building are maximized using different optimization solvers. Auxilliary...

Opto-Geometric Modelling of Complex Urban Landscapes

The injection of renewable energy into the grid requires meticulous planning and execution due to the unpredictable nature of weather and in-turn the energy generated by these sources. Moreover, the inclusion of grid-independent energy generators requires accurate tools to predict energy yield in order to simplify matters such as grid-congestion...

A quick-scan method to assess photovoltaic rooftop potential based on aerial imagery and LiDAR

A quick-scan yield prediction method has been developed to assess rooftop photovoltaic (PV) potential. The method has three main parts. For each roof, first (i) virtual 3D roof segments were reconstructed using aerial imagery, then, (ii) PV modules were automatically fitted onto roof segments using a fitting algorithm and finally, (iii) expected...

Photovoltaic and Heritage: Towards the energy transition of the building environment

Reaching a neutral use of energy in the building environment is challenging. That is because, as the population expands, so does the energy consumption. Considering that the building environment is accountable for 40 percent of energy consumption and 36 percent of total CO2 emissions, the building sector has to conform with specific guidelines...

Development and validation of a quick-scan algorithm for evaluation of rooftop PV potential

A quick-scan algorithm has been developed in order to evaluate rooftop PV potential in the Netherlands. Both its panel fitting and yield prediction functions have been validated with existing systems monitored by Solar Monkey. The calculation times of different parts of the algorithm were measured and decreased while keeping the accuracy of the...