ENERGY CONSIDERATIONS IN THE RESIDENTIAL BUILDING OF SAUDI ARABIA: A CASE STUDY FOR THE UTILIZATION OF SOLAR ENERGY

Abstract

Saudi Arabia, similar to many other developing nations, has gained significant experience with fast urbanization and infrastructure expansion, specifically in the field of construction. Buildings have a substantial role to play, contributing to nearly 80% of the overall national electricity consumption. Projections suggest that, based on current local energy consumption patterns, domestic energy consumption will increase at a rate of 4% to 5% per year by 2030. A substantial portion of this energy consumption growth is due to inefficient energy usage and the lack of coordinated enforcement and stakeholder engagement. This research paper outlines the findings of a study conducted to suggest potential techniques for utilizing solar energy and reducing CO2 emissions for residential buildings in hot climates such as Saudi Arabia. The study accomplishes this by critically analysing an existing villa in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. In this study, a model of 299 m2 (3229ft²) two-floor villa was developed in Revit and eQuest softwares, and it was validated. The model was employed to examine the energy performance of the villa vi during year. In this thesis, a villa model is studied as a case to explore the possibilities for conserving energy by analyzing and verifying the yearly energy consumption. Solar energy was utilized as the energy source, and the analysis of solar energy was carried out using HelioScope for solar energy analysis. According to the findings in this study, the villa can produces 18,653 kwh per year using solar panels on the rooftop. Conversely, the Villa consumed energy from grid is around 9162 kwh per year. In conclusion, this thesis provides evidence that relying on solar photovoltaic energy as a primary source of energy for residential buildings can be beneficial and achieved. By reducing dependence on fossil fuels, solar energy can help to reduce the carbon footprint and contribute to the sustainable development of society in Saudi Arabia.