Evaluating the influence of convective heat transfer coefficient on the carbon footprint of a service building in Morocco

Abstract

This study examines how the convective heat transfer coefficient impacts the carbon footprint of a service building situated in Morocco. This coefficient is pivotal in shaping the thermal efficiency of buildings, influencing energy consumption and environmental impact. Through simulations and analyses, we evaluate the extent to which variations in this coefficient affect overall energy efficiency and carbon emissions. Our analysis, based on specific climate data for Morocco and detailed architectural and operational parameters of a typical service building, reveals significant annual deviations. Heating energy fluctuates by up to ±48%, and cooling energy varies by up to ±32%. Furthermore, our findings demonstrate that the carbon footprint of electricity consumption for heating and cooling can vary by as much as ±31% of total CO2 emissions annually. Optimizing the convective heat transfer coefficient emerges as a critical strategy for reducing the carbon footprint, underscoring its importance in sustainable building design. These results offer valuable insights for architects, engineers, and policymakers seeking to enhance building performance and minimize environmental impact within the unique climate conditions of Morocco.