Daylighting and Passive Solar Buildings

As interest in the passive solar field shifts from small buildings to large structures, lighting systems will begin to receive more attention as a major energy consumer in commercial buildings. Among the options for reducing lighting energy consumption is the effective utilization of natural lighting through windows and skylights. Daylighting can provide substantial energy and cost savings, reduce building peak loads, increase task contrast and visibility, and improve overall lighting quality. However, there are many significant obstacles which must be addressed and resolved before these potential savings can be realized. Aspects of passive solar design which might either assist or impede the widespread utilization of daylighting are reviewed.