Urban surface modeling using town energy balance model: A review

MANAPSE Lab, Physics Department, Faculty of Sciences, Mohamed V University, Rabat, Morocco

^* Corresponding author: oumaima.aitrami.13@gmail.com

Abstract

In recent years, the Town Energy Balance (TEB) model has been used constantly to simulate energy exchanges in urban areas. This work is based on a systematic literature review of scientific publications in relation with the application of the TEB model in various climatic conditions and urban morphologies. The selected studies were analysed according to many criteria such as their objectives, input parameters, model configurations, and evaluation techniques. The TEB model has been integrated in numerous studies to simulate temperatures and energy between surfaces and the atmosphere in cities. It also contributes to the study of solutions such as green roofs, reflective materials, and plants to reduce heat islands in urban areas. Still the model needs very detailed urban data base and it requires adaptation for each city. As a result, the TEB model is useful to understand the form of cities and the impact of green solutions in the energy in urban scale. However, the model still needs improvement with both energy and water. This study gives a clear summary of the TEB model and still the suitable tool for planning sustainable and climate-friendly cities.