Abstract :
Rapid urbanization of the planet is occurring at an unprecedented pace, primarily in arid and semi-arid hot climates [Golden, J.S.,
2004. The built environment induced urban heat island effect in rapidly urbanizing arid regions – a sustainable urban engineering complexity.
Environ. Sci. J. Integr. Environ. Res. 1 (4), 321–349]. This growth has manifested itself as a cause of various impacts including
elevated urban temperatures in comparison to rural sites known as the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect [Oke, T.R., 1982. The energetic
basis of the urban heat island. Q. J. R. Meteor. Soc. 108, 1–24]. Related are the increased demands for electric power as a result of population
growth and increased need for mechanical cooling due to the UHI. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency
has developed a three-prong approach of (1) cool pavements, (2) urban forestry and (3) cool roofs to mitigate the UHI. Researchers
undertook an examination of micro scale benefits of the utilization of photovoltaic panels to reduce the thermal impacts to surface temperatures
of pavements in comparison to urban forestry. The results of the research indicate that photovoltaic panels provide a greater
thermal reduction benefit during the diurnal cycle in comparison to urban forestry while also providing the additional benefits of supporting
peak energy demand, conserving water resources and utilizing a renewable energy source.
Published by Elsevier Ltd.
