Application of Passive Cooling Techniques in an Institutional Building; A Case Study of Mass Communication Department, Abdu-Gusau Polytechnic Talata Mafara

This study aimed at identifying passive cooling techniques through extensive literature study that can be incorporated in an institutional building to make it energy efficient. The study also aimed at identifying changes in the design process that can affect energy efficiency in the mass communication design. It has analyzed the design features of typical mass communication buildings through a case study conducted in Abdu-Gusau polytechnic in Talata Mafara Zamfara state. However, in this research an attempt shall be made to evolve design solution with proper consideration of the climate of the site. The climatic variables directly affecting energy usage and user’s comfort such as; temperature, humidity, solar radiation and air movement, are to be studied because these are the five constituents of climate that are more important for the purposes of building design. Within the context of tropical climate, with regards to this proposal, the climatic data of the study area are collected and analyzed through case study. The aim of this research is to examine the application of passive cooling techniques in an institutional building that connects the approaches of climate responsiveness in providing thermal comfort. The analyzed data shall guide us on the selection of building materials, construction method, shape and orientation of building, size and location of fenestrations and the use of soft landscape elements. These are taken into cognizance by relevant case studies and literature review of building in various climatic regions across the globe with respect to adaptability and response to various environmental variables.