Abstract

This study examines the comparative effectiveness of passive solar design strategies and active solar systems for reducing residential energy expenditures while maintaining thermal comfort in Climate Zone 6A/B, with a focus on Western New York. A baseline single-family residence was created in Autodesk Revit and analyzed with Autodesk Insight (EnergyPlus) to assess energy performance across multiple upgrade scenarios. These scenarios encompassed targeted envelope enhancements, passive solar design strategies, deep energy retrofits, and photovoltaic (PV) system integrations. Results indicate passive measures, especially air sealing and insulation, can cut energy use by up to 76% with deep retrofits, though upfront costs and payback time are higher. Active solar, mainly PV systems, delivered the best economic benefits by offsetting or exceeding electricity use and providing substantial savings under net metering. The evidence demonstrates that although active solar systems yield the greatest financial return, they do not address the underlying energy demand. Passive strategies still are key for improving building performance, reducing heating loads, and increasing sustained resilience. The study determines that the most effective approach for cold-climate residential design is a combined strategy: reducing energy demand through passive measures and offsetting remaining consumption with active solar systems.

Publication Date

5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Student Type

Graduate

Degree Name

Architecture (M.Arch.)

Department, Program, or Center

Architecture, Department of

College

Golisano Institute for Sustainability

Advisor

Seth Holmes

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

Download

Share

COinS