Energy saving by proper tree plantation

A model is presented to predict the effect of trees as passive cooling options on buildings. A computer program is written to calculate hourly cooling load requirements by the numerical solution of the energy balance equation for the building. This simulation is validated by comparison with field data taken from an actual house in Shiraz, Iran. A guideline is presented for optimum tree plantation concerning energy saving. Results indicate that for the house under study (of popular size in Shiraz) cooling loads may be reduced by 10–40% by appropriate tree plantation.