The pursuit of energy efficiency in modern architecture is incomplete without the strategic integration of solar technology. A building's performance is not just about reducing energy consumption; it is also about generating its own clean power. Green buildings that incorporate solar solutions, from passive design elements to active photovoltaic systems, can dramatically lower their operational costs, reduce their environmental footprint, and meet the highest global sustainability standards. This symbiotic relationship between a building and its renewable energy source is at the forefront of the sustainable design movement, creating smarter, more resilient, and more valuable properties.

This program provides a comprehensive and practical deep dive into the principles and techniques for optimizing a building's energy performance using solar technology. Participants will gain a fundamental understanding of how to combine design strategies with engineering solutions to create truly high-performance structures. The course covers everything from understanding a site's solar potential and passive solar design to the complexities of building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) and advanced energy modeling. By focusing on real-world case studies and hands-on exercises, attendees will be equipped to design, develop, and manage buildings that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also a cornerstone of a sustainable energy future.

Duration: 10 days

Target Audience:

• Architects and Architectural Designers
• Mechanical and Electrical Engineers
• Building and Facility Managers
• Real Estate Developers
• Urban Planners
• Sustainability Consultants
• Students in Architecture and Engineering
• Construction Professionals
• Energy Auditors
• Property Owners and Managers

Objectives:

• Master the core principles of green building design and energy performance.
• Learn to conduct a comprehensive site analysis for solar potential.
• Understand the key differences between passive and active solar design strategies.
• Grasp the complexities of integrating solar PV systems into building structures.
• Develop proficiency in using energy modeling software to predict performance.
• Explore best practices in building envelope design for maximum efficiency.
• Learn about robust approaches to daylighting and natural ventilation.
• Identify the critical legal, regulatory, and certification standards.
• Develop skills in communicating the economic and environmental benefits.
• Formulate strategies for a data-driven approach to green building design.

Course Modules:

Module 1: Foundations of Green Building

• The definition and principles of green building
• The business case for sustainable design
• The role of building energy performance in sustainability
• An overview of green building standards (e.g., LEED, BREEAM)
• The lifecycle assessment of a building

Module 2: Passive Solar Design

• The principles of passive solar heating and cooling
• The role of building orientation and massing
• Sun path analysis and shading strategies
• Passive solar heating techniques (e.g., Trombe walls)
• Passive cooling techniques (e.g., thermal chimneys)

Module 3: Active Solar Thermal Systems

• The science of solar thermal energy
• Components of a solar hot water system
• Sizing and designing a solar thermal system
• The use of solar thermal for space heating and cooling
• The role of a clear and focused research question

Module 4: Solar Photovoltaics (PV) for Buildings

• The science of solar PV technology
• Components of a building PV system: panels, inverters, racking
• On-grid vs. off-grid PV systems
• The economics of solar PV for buildings
• The importance of a clear and consistent reporting style

Module 5: Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV)

• The concept of BIPV
• Different types of BIPV materials (e.g., PV roof shingles, facades)
• The aesthetic and architectural considerations of BIPV
• The performance of BIPV vs. traditional PV systems
• The role of a "risk and mitigation" plan

Module 6: Building Envelope and Materials

• The role of the building envelope in energy performance
• High-performance insulation and air sealing
• Advanced glazing and window technologies
• The importance of a simple scorecard and a dashboard
• Selecting sustainable and energy-efficient materials

Module 7: Energy Modeling and Simulation

• The purpose of building energy modeling
• An overview of energy modeling software (e.g., EnergyPlus, OpenStudio)
• Creating a building model and inputting data
• Simulating and analyzing a building’s energy performance
• The importance of a "data story map"

Module 8: Advanced Energy Systems

• The role of battery storage in a building
• The integration of microgrids and smart grids
• The use of smart thermostats and sensors
• The importance of a program's theory of change
• The future of building energy systems

Module 9: Daylighting and Lighting Controls

• The importance of natural daylighting
• Designing for optimal daylight distribution
• The role of lighting controls and sensors
• Using energy-efficient lighting technologies (e.g., LED)
• The impact on occupant well-being and productivity

Module 10: HVAC and Mechanical Systems

• High-efficiency HVAC systems
• The importance of a "stakeholder analysis"
• Using renewable energy to power HVAC
• The role of smart HVAC controls
• The impact on indoor air quality and comfort

Module 11: Green Building Standards and Certifications

• The role of green building certifications (e.g., LEED, BREEAM, Passive House)
• Navigating the certification process
• The economic and market benefits of certification
• The importance of a clear and compelling KPI
• The future of green building standards

Module 12: Economics and Financing

• The cost-benefit analysis of green building features
• The financial return on investment (ROI)
• The role of green building financing and incentives
• The importance of a "data story map"
• Valuing a green building in the market

Module 13: Project Management

• The lifecycle of a green building project
• Integrating sustainability into project management
• Managing a team of sustainability experts
• The role of a "stakeholder analysis"
• Communicating project goals and outcomes

Module 14: Case Studies

• Case study: A net-zero energy building
• Case study: A solar-integrated commercial building
• Case study: A high-performance residential project
• Lessons learned from global projects
• The future of sustainable architecture

Module 15: Policy and Regulation

• The role of building codes and regulations
• Government incentives and mandates
• The impact of carbon taxes on building design
• The importance of a simple scorecard and a dashboard
• The role of a "risk and mitigation" plan

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.