Possibilities for using solar energy to fulfil the energy needs of buildings in the city centre

UTP University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Architecture, Al. Prof. S. Kaliskiego 7, 85-796 Bydgoszcz, Poland

^* Corresponding author: adamb@utp.edu.pl

Abstract

Historical buildings in the centre of European cities are characterized by compact built-up areas with diversified heights of buildings, most often with multi-sloped roofs. Architectural elements, dormers, chimneys and bay windows, cause limitations in the availability of surface area for solar installations. The paper presents the results of an analysis for possibilities in meeting energy requirements with the use of solar energy for old-town buildings in the centre of Bydgoszcz. Based on the calculations made, it was determined that the dense downtown development has a very large roof surface, however, the vicinity of buildings, roof slope angles, and obstacles cause significant restrictions on the location of such installations. The article analyzes selected fragments of the Downtown district. The height of buildings, their shape and the surface of their roofs and all the obstacles that occur there were taken into account. The conclusions concern an assessment of the possibility of using the potential of solar energy in this type of building. The efficiency of solar installations and the losses associated with energy conversion and transmission to customers is also included.