Architecture Engineers Award

Traditional building energy simulation models often overlook the stochastic behavior of occupants and the complex interactions between multiple devices. This limitation creates a significant gap between predicted and actual building energy consumption. Addressing this issue requires behavior-sensitive frameworks that integrate both human and technical dimensions of building performance. The proposed study bridges this gap by introducing a fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making (FMCDM) approach coupled with evolutionary optimization to ensure realistic and adaptive performance predictions. Significance of Occupant Behavior in Energy Modeling Occupant behavior is one of the most influential yet uncertain factors in determining building energy performance. Stochastic patterns, such as irregular use of appliances, varying thermal preferences, and diverse daily routines, make deterministic models insufficient. Incorporating behavioral diversity through FMCDM provides more accurate results, ...

The integration of renewable and conventional energy technologies has become essential for achieving sustainable power generation. Hybrid solar-gas turbine systems are emerging as a promising solution to enhance energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and optimize resource utilization. This study explores the redesign of an existing gas power plant in the MENA region through the incorporation of a heliostat field and central air receiver, highlighting its potential as a pathway for low-carbon energy transition. Hybrid Solar-Gas Turbine Concept The hybridization of solar and gas turbine technologies leverages the high efficiency of gas-based systems with the sustainability of solar energy. In this research, a heliostat field is deployed to capture solar radiation, directing it to a central receiver to preheat the working fluid before entering the turbine. This integration reduces dependency on fossil fuels while maintaining the reliability and flexibility of conventional ...