Analyzing the Window-to-Wall Ratio in School Facades of Osijek-Baranja County in Croatia

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between Window-to-Wall Ratio (WWR) and energy consumption in educational buildings, focusing on elementary and high schools in Osijek-Baranja County in Croatia. Given the substantial energy consumption associated with buildings and the imperative to mitigate environmental impact, early design decisions are crucial in shaping building performance. However, limited research exists on the energy performance of educational buildings despite their significance in providing conducive learning environments and promoting environmental consciousness among students. The analysis reveals a significant variability in WWR values and a strong link between WWR and cooling energy consumption, highlighting the impact of architectural design on energy demands in educational buildings. The findings underscore the importance of optimizing WWR to minimize energy consumption and enhance indoor comfort in educational settings.