OPTIMIZING ELECTROCHROMIC SMART GLASS WINDOWS PERFORMANCE WITH SOLAR CONTROL FOR SUSTAINABLE OFFICE ENVIRONMENTS IN THE HOT AND HUMID CLIMATE OF SAUDI ARABIA

ABSTRACT Energy-saving strategies are of paramount importance, especially in office buildings located in hot-humid climates. This study explores the potential for energy savings and assesses visual comfort in such environments by introducing Electrochromic (EC) smart glass in the window glazing. To bolster credibility and provide essential information, we employ a state-of-the-art building simulation tool. The research focuses on evaluating the energy performance and visual comfort of EC glass windows when controlled by solar controllers. Through meticulous simulations, we pinpoint the optimal setpoint radiation levels for EC glass windows across all building orientations. The results conclusively indicate that deploying EC glass windows with solar controllers, each set to the recommended radiation levels, leads to remarkable energy savings, up to 20%. Importantly, these savings are achieved without compromising visual comfort in any of the building's zones, regardless of orientation. This research underscores the potential for EC glass windows to significantly improve energy efficiency in office buildings, emphasizing their applicability in hot-humid climates. The findings call for further exploration in different building types and climate zones, as the practical implications of these results could revolutionize energy-efficient building design and retrofits.