Demonstration and implementation of thermally passive low-income housing : a case study in Bhuj

Abstract

In a 2004 Global Health Risks report, the World Heath Organization identified insufficient protection from extreme heat as one of the primary heath concerns in developing nations. The combination of a harsh environment and the lack of coping resources can lead to cardiovascular and respiratory disease and in some cases, death. Throughout May 2015, an estimated 2,500 Indian citizens lost their lives as a result of deadly heatwaves that topped 46°C. Globally, more than 7,500 deaths were caused by extreme heat the same year. Those living in resource-constrained communities without the means to construct substantial housing are the most vulnerable to these harsh weather conditions. As the developing world experiences increasing rapid urbanization, an energy gap, and frequent heatwaves due to climate change, there is a critical need for new construction techniques that can regulate indoor temperature using passive means rather than energy consuming appliances. Though some thermal passive cooling techniques have been previously researched, they have yet to be successfully implemented in resource-constrained communities. In collaboration with the Hunnarshala Foundation, an NGO located in Bhuj, Gujarat, India, this research seeks to bridge the gap between thermal passive techniques and the application of these methods in low-income housing. This thesis presents recommendations on roof design, wall design, and fan usage based on the results from prototype field work, simulations, and the implementation of pilot homes. With an appropriate building design, measured operative temperatures in pilot homes met the ASHRAE 80% acceptability criteria for more than 60% of operating hours and remained within the IMAC 80% acceptability range 88% of operating hours in the Bhuj climate. In the context of India, the discoveries from this case study in Bhuj can be used to write building guidelines to holistically improve the thermal comfort in Indian homes as a part of India's "Housing for All" program. Beyond the context of India, the more than 300 million people living in resource-constrained regions can adopt low-cost passive thermal control techniques to build housing capable of shielding against extreme heat.