The multi-objective optimization of residential building glass in summer-hot and winter-cold regions using genetic algorithms: energy consumption, carbon emissions, and health performance analysis

TL;DR

This paper uses genetic algorithms to optimize residential building glass in hot summers and cold winters to reduce energy use, carbon emissions, and improve indoor health.

Contribution

A novel multi-objective genetic algorithm framework for optimizing glazing parameters in residential buildings for energy, emissions, and health.

Findings

Annual energy consumption decreased by 20.98% through optimized glazing.

Carbon emissions were reduced by 20.57% in the optimized design.

Indoor healthy time increased by 18.69% after optimization.

Abstract

With the growing demand for environmental sustainability and residential comfort, low-carbon buildings and healthy urban planning have become key research priorities. In summer-hot and winter-cold regions, the performance of residential building glazing plays a critical role in balancing energy efficiency, carbon emissions, and indoor health.

This study investigates the multi-objective optimization of residential building glass using genetic algorithms. Building energy consumption, carbon emissions, and indoor health performance are set as optimization objectives. Key glass parameters—including the window heat transfer coefficient, solar heat gain coefficient, and visible light transmittance—are optimized through a multi-objective genetic algorithm framework. Simulations are conducted using the Rhino and Grasshopper platforms, with Hangzhou, China, selected as the case study area.

The optimization results indicate that annual building energy consumption decreases from 50.95 to 40.26 kWh/(m2·a), representing a reduction of 20.98%. Carbon emissions are reduced from 2622.93 to 2083 kgCO2e/m2, a decrease of 20.57%. In addition, the proportion of indoor healthy time increases from 34.46% to 40.9%, corresponding to an improvement of 18.69%.

By comprehensively considering energy efficiency, carbon emissions, and indoor health performance, this study proposes an optimized glazing configuration for residential buildings in summer-hot and winter-cold regions. The results suggest prioritizing south-facing windows in building design, while adjusting glass parameters for other orientations according to specific conditions. This work provides practical technical support and optimization strategies for the development of low-carbon buildings and healthy cities.

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