Exploration of simulation methodology for thermal comfort assessment of educational buildings in Nigeria

The utilisation of computer software for building assessment has been widely accepted by professionals in the built environment globally in recent years and used as an alternative method for improving building performance and energy efficiency. This paper presents a methodology for whole building parametric simulation of a university building in Nigeria’s hot/dry climatic zone, using the IESVE software suite for building performance, thermal comfort provisions and energy-saving methods. The various applications of the IESVE simulation software suite, such as Mode IT, Sun-Cast, and MacroFlo, were explored to generate the building model, solar insulation and ventilation modes, and the Apache app served as the central simulation engine that provides data navigation, input interphase and visualisation. IESVE software provides comprehensive building energy modelling, design, and compliance features. This study contributes to passive cooling techniques through simulation to minimise indoor overheating and energy consumption reduction of education buildings in pursuit of desirable interior thermal comfort conditions.