Microclimate analysis of a university campus in Norway

Abstract

Climate responsive urban design that makes use of passive heating and cooling strategies and enhances pedestrian comfort is a key element to a sustainable society. Knowing the impact of different materials, building typologies and arrangements and a building's sensitivity to microclimatic conditions, the energy balance can be enhanced. This study aims to evaluate the microclimatic conditions at the campus of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, located in Trondheim, Norway. A numerical model was used and validated with punctual measurements on site. The results for air temperature showed a considerable seasonal variation with highest spatial temperature differences in summer and lowest in winter. Regarding the analysis of the wind field, east-west passages were identified as problematic. The influence of the seasonal changing leaf area density of the vegetation had a visible but minor influence on the wind field. The calibrated model will be used for further research on the influence of new building bodies on microclimate and thus building energy demand and pedestrian comfort.