Preliminary Evaluation Of Energy-Efficiency Improvements To Modular Classrooms

The objective of our investigation is to evaluate innovations that would enable modular classroom builders to improve the energy performance of their classrooms. We investigate improved insulation, better windows, daylighting, cross-ventilation, sensible and latent heat recovery of ventilation air and light colored surfaces and radiant barriers for cooling dominated climates. The tasks associated with this work are as follows: Create a simulation software. Establish a baseline reference building using a standard modular classroom building. Parametric evaluation of the impact of ventilation and school schedule on energy use. Determine the feasibility of improving insulation and envelope systems. Determine the feasibility of using windows and overhead skylights to reduce electrical lighting and mechanical cooling. Simulate improvements to lighting and HVAC system controls. Examine improvements to heating and cooling system efficiency