Optimising Classroom Orientation for Energy Efficiency in Iraq’s Kurdistan Region: A Simulation-Based Approach
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.23918/eajse.v11i3p18Keywords:
Optimum orientation, Energy performance, Classroom orientation, Thermal Comfort, Environmental Performance Simulation, Energy Efficiency In Educational Buildings, Classroom Thermal Performance, Sustainable School DesignAbstract
The orientation of a classroom window (its azimuth) plays an important role in both energy use and indoor temperature. This is particularly relevant for schools in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, where the climate can vary significantly. To investigate this effect, a simulation-based approach was applied using a parametric model of a typical classroom. The model was rotated in 15° increments, yielding 24 distinct orientation scenarios for analysis and comparison. This study is among the first simulation-based investigations in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq to provide orientation-specific design guidance for school classrooms. The study examined energy demand for heating, cooling, and lighting, as well as carbon dioxide emissions and comfort hours in a classroom over a full academic year.
Results indicate that classrooms with windows oriented at 165° and 180° yield the most energy-efficient outcomes. Showing up to 8% reduction in total electricity use and CO2 emissions compared to the worst-performing orientations (30° and 45°). South-facing orientations also maximised daylight availability and reduced lighting loads by around 40%. Conversely, North-East orientations significantly increased both heating and lighting demand. The findings recommend prioritising Southeast-to-Southwest windows in future school design in similar climatic contexts to enhance energy efficiency and indoor environmental quality.
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