Heavy and light high-rise buildings in oasis-cities: thermal and energy assessment of apartments above and below the tree canopy in Mendoza, Argentina

Abstract From an environmental point of view, the urban forest in Oasis-Cities defines two strata in height: one with a moderate microclimate under the trees, and a second one over the tree canopy that presents an extreme climatic situation. The aim of this study is to assess the energy efficiency and the conditions of habitability of apartments at different heights in high-rise buildings. Four case studies were selected in the Oasis-City of Mendoza, Argentina: two above and two under the tree canopy. Heavy and light envelopes were evaluated. For two years, in situ temperature measurements were taken in order to perform a diagnosis. These data were used to adjust and validate models using the dynamic Energy Plus software. We studied energy refurbishment strategies. Thermal behaviour and HVAC consumption were analysed. The results show that dwellings under the urban forest influence take advantage of solar radiation protection in summer (thermal differences of 4°C), higher temperatures in winter (thermal differences of 3 °C) and minimum consumption in HVAC systems, close to zero energy buildings. Furthermore, apartments in heavy buildings reported better thermal behaviour than those in light buildings.