Investigation of the optimal PCM wall location into buildings envelope under Mediteranean climate

Global energy demand is growing, and it becomes necessary to mitigate the environmental impact caused by fossil fuel combustion. These traditional sources contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, global warming, and climate change. The building sector is among the highest energy-consuming sectors worldwide. To decrease energy consumption and improve building performance, thermal energy storage systems have emerged as a promising solution. They involve the use of phase change materials (PCMs), which help regulate indoor temperatures and store thermal energy. This study investigates the optimal placement of PCMs within building envelopes in a typical residential house in Beirut, Lebanon. Simulations were carried out using DesignBuilder software, and results indicated that proper PCM placement can significantly reduce heating and cooling demands, thereby improving energy efficiency in buildings located in Mediterranean climates.