Analysis of thermal comfort in free-running and mixed-mode office buildings during summer season: A case study of Kathmandu Valley

Abstract

Nepal is witnessing a more rapid temperature increase compared to the global average, heightening concerns about potential thermal discomfort and its impact on the workplace environment. Addressing this, there is a critical need to prioritize improvements in the indoor thermal conditions of office buildings to mitigate potential adverse effects on occupants. The indoor environmental quality, encompassing thermal comfort and indoor air quality, holds substantial sway over occupants' well-being and productivity in office settings. Therefore, fostering a comfortable and productive working environment is paramount for effective work outcomes. The scientific community, particularly in building analysis, has shown increased interest in issues related to thermal comfort and indoor air quality, evident in recent revisions to the Directive 2018/844/EU on the energy performance of buildings. This study aims to report on the thermal environment conditions in free-running and mixedmode office buildings and assess the thermal perception of office employees during the summer season. Through physical parameter monitoring and survey questionnaires conducted in Kathmandu Valley during June-July 2023, the study determined the comfort temperature using Griffiths' method. The results indicate comfort temperatures of 27.21 °C