ADAPTING RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS TO LOW-COST HOUSING: PLANNING AND DESIGN IMPLICATIONS

S.A. Sumaila¹, *M. B. Adamu¹, Iro A. I² and R.T Bhadmus³

¹Architecture Programme, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi
²Quantity Surveying Programme, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi

³Quantity Surveying Programme Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi
email: bby6907@gmail.com

ABSTRACT
Cost of housing construction has been on the increase for a long time now and an equally high cost in use especially that of energy has exerbated the situation. Consequently adoption of renewable energy systems for low-cost housing has been suggested not only as a cheaper alternative but also as a more environmentally friendly option. However contemporary building design is premised on conventional energy source necessitating some modifications in planning and design for adoption of the various alternative energy sources. A review of the characteristic’s of the various alternative energy technologies suggests modifications inarchitectural planning and design in such areas as site planning/landscaping floor planning. Construction detailing, materials specification and environmental control systems at the micro level. Such modifications would imply a new building form and character which should not only be aesthetically pleasing but should in addition achieve overall cost effectiveness. At the macro level, i.e. City/regional level, a new infrastructural arrangement as well as a modified land-use planning would result

Key Words: Design, Energy, Low-Cost, Planning, Renewable.