Thermal Comfort in a Hot-Humid Climate Through Passive Cooling in Low-Income Residential Buildings in Abuja, Nigeria

The research investigates the thermal performance of residential buildings in Abuja, Nigeria during the dry and rainy seasons. A field study was conducted to understand the real and preferred conditions of thermal comfort in low-income residential buildings, which represent the largest single housing sector. Knowing the temperatures people are experiencing in their houses and the limits that residents can tolerate is a first step to proffer passive solutions to reduce discomfort and energy demand and then satisfy the energy demand passively. During the survey, 222 people responded to a post occupancy questionnaire and for the ten selected case study dwellings, a comfort survey questionnaire was used. Physical measurements were taken simultaneously during the comfort survey in both air-conditioned and naturally ventilated residential buildings. The ASHRAE and air flow sensation scales were chosen as voting scales. This survey further looked at possible barriers to the implementation of more sustainable approaches that would enhance passive solutions in Nigeria, since the conventional means of cooling in this hot-humid climate is becoming expensive and less satisfactory.

This study makes a significant contribution to understanding the real and ideal thermal conditions occupants experience in low and middle income residential buildings in Abuja and demonstrates the effectiveness of passive interventions in reducing indoor temperatures and cooling loads.