Design and performance of energy-efficient solar residential house in Andorra

Abstract

This paper describes the design and building technology details of a three-storey single family house located in the Pyrenees, in Andorra. The house is owned by the first author, and has been occupied since 2004. A combination of active and passive solar energy systems and night-time electricity are used to supply the heating and cooling demands. The main goal of this paper is to provide detailed design information and an evaluation of performance. Data provided includes site information and climate, basic design options and decisions, energy saving strategies and energy end use data. The house has been in use since 2003. This allows adequate performance data to be presented and evaluated. Some general results and initial design problems are discussed.

This work was partially funded by the Spanish and Catalan government (ENE2008-06687-C02-01 and 2009SGR534). The authors would like to acknowledge the participation of Enginesa.