Addressing the Overheating Crisis and Its Socio-Economic Implications: A Case Study in London’s High-Risk Areas

Abstract

AbstractPurpose- The number of excess deaths in England and Wales during the second heatwave period in 2022 was the greatest it has been since 2018. Greater London is particularly at risk for indoor overheating due to the predicted increase in hot summers from 50–60% by 2050, which can have serious negative effects on the socio-economic state of the city. The purpose of this study is to assess and predict the risk of overheating in a residential apartment building in a high-risk London heatwave location.Methodology-This study uses computer simulation and on-site measurements to create a virtual model for IES VE dynamic thermal modelling and perform overheating assessment simulations in a London apartment complex using the CIBSE TM59 methodology.Findings- The percentage hours with exceeding temperature surpassed 50% above the standard threshold in the 2020s scenario, which increased two folds for the 2050s and 2080s. Moreover, the bedrooms’ operational temperatures are found to be terribly above the safety standard.Implications- The findings implicate examining the economic viability and effectiveness of various solutions in the future to prevent residential building overheating in London. Further investigation can be done by conducting in-depth experiments on the susceptibility of various floors to overheating.Originality/value- The paper offers novel insights into the overheating risk assessment in London, particularly focusing on households in high-risk areas. The study contributes to the conversation on sustainability practices and their socio-economic implications by highlighting the urgent need for retrofitting frameworks to promote sustainable building design and practices.