Improving the efficiency of the numerical modelling of built environment earth-contact heat transfers

Statistics related to energy use, housing type and tenure were obtained from census data for Belfast. A relationship between the three main tenure types and the heating configuration for all dwelling types for each I km grid-square was identified. The energy consumed for each fuel type is presented as a fraction of the total energy consumption figures for each fuel type. An air-quality model was used to establish the reduction in air pollution resulting from the impact of local initiatives to improve energy efficiency in specific smoke-control zones. It was shown that, by employing only those measures that have a payback period of less than 10 years, a 24% saving could be made to the required energy input to the Belfast Urban Area.