Abstract:
The traditional daylighting calculation methods and the metrics used for its quantification have some limitations. For
example, these methods do not take into account, effectively and realistically, the consequences of the dynamic
characteristics of natural light and in particular those associated with its energy-related impacts and with the influence of
the occupants of the buildings in the final daylighting performance.
In view of that, an integrated method for characterization and realistic prediction of the dynamic performance of
daylighting was developed. The new method takes into account: i) the characteristics of the luminous climate in the
southern European regions, where non-overcast sky conditions prevail; ii) the guarantee of an adequate indoor visual
environment and minimization of visual discomfort; iii) the energy-related impacts of daylighting; iv) the influence of
environmental management systems and their control strategies in the final daylighting conditions and energy use; and,
v) the expectations, preferences, attitudes and behaviours of individuals towards their indoor environmental conditions
and control systems at their disposal.