Abstract
The authors of each article included in this issue explain how their research is applicable to modern industrial practice
Design and sizing practices of ground source heat pump systems in Finnish multi-apartment building retrofits
Kari Kallioharju, Juho Ylipaino, Aki Kortetm¨aki, Antti Virta, Pertti J ¨arventausta and
Piia Sormunen
This exploratory survey clarifies how GSHP retrofits in Finnish MABs are typically designed and sized. GSHPs were most often sized for partial capacity (75%–85% of peak heating demand), while systems generally rely on electric backup and top-up heating. Grid connections were frequently enlarged, although earlier studies based on historical consumption data suggest that the need for such upgrades is uncertain. Control functionalities based on electricity use or power demand were present in fewer than 10% of systems. These findings help designers and contractors refine sizing ratios and grid-connection design, and they provide baseline data for researchers and guideline developers.
Spatiotemporal variations in cold waves and the impacts of UHI on building loads during cold wave periods in Tianjin, China
Fanchao Meng, Guangtao Dong, Chao Yan and Xiangyu Ao
This study provides the variations of UHII during typical CW events in cold climates, and evaluates the impacts of UHI effect on residential heating loads. The response of the heating load variations in residential building to UHI effect during CW periods should be comprehensively considered to improve the fine-level of heating operation regulations, especially in urban areas in cold climates, to reduce the heating energy consumption and emission of buildings.
Thermal comfort evaluation in the adaptive reuse of historic industrial buildings: An empirical study of two renovated factories in Hefei
Qi Guo Li, Ying Liu and Chao Wen
This study provides empirical, decision-support evidence for the green renovation of industrial heritage. At its core, it establishes operative temperature as a critical design parameter and adopts the acceptable duration proportion of thermal comfort as a quantifiable target—thereby translating comfort needs into actionable design language. The data support a practical approach combining enhanced building envelope performance with flexible indoor environmental adjustments to balance heritage preservation and thermal comfort improvements. This research framework can be integrated into the design justification, scheme comparison, and post-occupancy evaluation processes of similar projects, offering a scientific and operational reference for enhancing environmental performance in the adaptive reuse of industrial heritage.
A probabilistic multi-variable hybrid approach to window operations and indoor comfort in residential dorms
Osama Maqsood Janjua, Syed Maaz Hasan, Muhammad Sajid and James Brusey
This research provides a practical tool for building engineers, facility managers, and smart system developers to significantly improve energy efficiency and occupant comfort. The developed hybrid model predicts window-opening behavior with high accuracy (95%). This enables the creation of next generation BMS that can anticipate occupant needs, proactively adjust heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) operations, and reduce unnecessary energy consumption. For building designers, the model offers data-driven understandings into realistic occupant behavior (OB), leading to better-performing natural ventilation approaches.
Working under the collided supply jets of active chilled beams – The effect on comfort and work performance
Henna Maula, Arttu Sivula, Jenni Radun, Iida-Kaisa Tervahartiala and Valtteri Hongisto
This study provides evidence that individual factors, such as gender and draught sensitivity, are important while designing and implementing energy-efficient cooling systems that prioritize occupant comfort. The findings from this study has practical implications for indoor environment design and management in workplaces.
Study on thermal comfort and ventilation performance of a wind catcher in hot-dry climate of Mexico: A sustainable energy-saving strategy
Luis Guillermo Carreto Hernandez, Wendy Guadalupe B´aez Garc´ıa, Jos´e Antonio Garc´ıa Merino, Antonio de Jes ´us C´ardenas Hern´andez, Abel Yradier Gómez Parra and Paul Ram´ırez S´anchez
This study provides clear design guidance for architects and engineers aiming to optimize natural ventilation in hot-dry climates. By identifying the most effective inlet and outlet positions in wind-catcher systems, the findings help reduce air stagnation and improve indoor thermal comfort without relying on mechanical cooling. The proposed configurations support energy-saving strategies in building design, particularly in regions with high cooling loads. These insights are applicable not only in Mexican cities such as Mexicali, but also in similar arid environments globally, contributing to the advancement of passive cooling solutions in climate-responsive architecture.