Urban surfaces play a major role in the response to issues related to climate change and urbanisation.  A recent report from the IEA Solar Heating and Cooling (IEA SHC) Program looks beyond active or passive solar energy systems in solar urban design, to a wider range of solutions linked to urban solar radiation.

An opportunity to utilise urban surfaces
An increased utilisation of solar neighborhood surfaces might offer several opportunities, not only for producing renewable energy and correctly managing passive solar gains and daylight, but also for enhancing urban sustainability and climate resilience, and providing environmental, social, and economic benefits.

The recently completed IEA SHC Task 63 report ‘Surface Uses in Solar Neighbourhoods’ provides a comprehensive summary of surface uses for solar neighourhoods. Featuring the work of wide range of international experts, including Australian Task 63 Expert and APVI member Dr Mark Snow, the work steps through the key characteristics and principal benefits of eight major surface uses:”The intent of the report is to foster awareness of how different surfaces and solar technologies in urban areas can be utilised to deliver positive outcomes”. Dr. Mark Snow.

Urban surfaces have an unprecedented exploitation potential for climate resilience and sustainability. Urban planners, designers, and municipalities need a readily understandable overview of all the potential opportunities for applications on urban surfaces, as well as the the benefits provided by each solution and the contributions to the site-specific objectives. In addition, there is further opportunity for integration of multiple applications of urban surfaces.

 

For all the insights, view the full report here