Randomized trial evaluates thermochromic windows' impact on light and cooling in smart greenhouses, suggesting improved energy efficiency.
Key Points
This research aims to evaluate the efficiency of thermochromic windows in managing light and energy in smart greenhouses during peak summer conditions.
Compared four materials: glass, Low-E glass, polycarbonate, and thermochromic windows using EnergyPlus simulation.
Focused on an 8-span greenhouse with a floor area of 1008 m2 in Gwangju, South Korea.
Modeled temperature-dependent SHGC variations for thermochromic windows.
Thermochromic windows reduced noon illuminance by 75%, from 26,482 lux to 6628 lux.
Achieved a 13.1% decrease in peak cooling load, from 537,929 W to 467,477 W, outperforming Low-E glass and polycarbonate.
At peak hours, reduced transmitted solar radiation by 37.8% per unit area compared to conventional glass.