Case Study Highlighting the Potential Issue of Overheating

Overview:

The study highlights the growing risk of overheating in Ireland, a region known for its historically cool climate. It shows that climate change is expected to raise summer temperatures by 1–1.6°C by mid-century, accompanied by increased solar radiation and decreased wind speeds. These factors, combined with urban influences and retrofit interventions aimed at energy efficiency, indicate a potential disaster for overheating.

Key Points from the Case Study

Climate Shifts:

Future weather files also indicate the peak overheating during July shifts to August, along with elevated ambient temperatures and greater solar gains. Decreased wind speeds add to the challenge for natural ventilation.

Retrofit Challenges:

National retrofit programs that reduce heat loss in winter often overlook solar protection. Without integrated measures such as external shading or improved ventilation, these retrofits can worsen summer overheating.

Regulatory Implications:

Existing targets, Such as TM59, Part L, and Approved Document Part O,  should be developed to include dynamic, forward-facing metrics that capture both energy efficiency and overheating risk.

Vulnerable Dwellings:

Middle and top-floor apartments, as well as Compact homes, are among those most at risk from a higher amount of solar exposure and lower thermal mass. Current estimates indicate that up to 10% of dwellings in Ireland (over 500,000 people) are now at risk, and that number is only going to

Dynamic Simulation Modelling (DSM):

DSM shows that, even when accounting for behaviours like opening windows and localized weather predictions, the building’s internal temperature will rise dramatically. This highlights the importance of design strategies with foresight

Country: Ireland             

County: Dublin