Multi-Scale Analysis of Solar Incidence and Transmittance in Palestine: Annual, Monthly, and Daily Assessment Using Simulation Tools
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Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tafila Technical University
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College of Engineering, Palestine Polytechnic University
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Alternative Energy Technology Department, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan
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Applied Engineering and Technology Department, Faculty of Engineering & Technology, Applied Science Private University
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Mechanical Engineering Department, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan
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Faculty of Environmental Engineering and Energy, Lublin University of Technology
Corresponding author
Sameh Alsaqoor
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tafila Technical University
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ABSTRACT
This study presents a hierarchical multi-scale assessment of solar incidence and solar transmittance in highly glazed buildings under the climatic conditions of Palestine. Using Design Builder with EnergyPlus weather data for Jerusalem, the research evaluates how Facade orientation, window-to-wall ratio, and glazing type influence solar heat gains at annual, monthly, daily, and hourly levels. A reference office space with a single-glazed facade was simulated across four orientations and five window-to-wall ratios, combined with six glazing systems ranging from single clear to advanced low-emissivity and solar control glass. Annual and monthly simulations were first used to identify critical peak solar gain periods for each orientation. These peak months were then examined through detailed daily and hourly analyses to capture short-term fluctuations often masked by averaged data. Results show that solar gains increase almost proportionally with higher glazing ratios across all orientations. However, the timing and intensity of peak gains strongly depend on orientation. South facades exhibit predictable midday peaks, east and west Facades experience sharp morning and afternoon peaks due to low-angle solar radiation, and west facades record the highest overall peak gains. Even north facades, often considered thermally neutral, demonstrate noticeable gains at high glazing ratios. Glazing type plays a decisive role, with single clear glass producing the highest transmitted gains, while double low-emissivity and solar control systems reduce peak transmission by up to about fifty percent. The study concludes that combining long-term simulations with detailed peak day analysis provides a more accurate understanding of solar gain behavior in Mediterranean and hot climates. The proposed multi-scale methodology offers practical guidance for optimizing Facade design, glazing selection, and energy-efficient building envelopes in regions with high solar availability.