Analysis and mapping of the heating and cooling degree-days for Morocco at variable base temperatures

The purpose of this study is to evaluate, analyse and draw up maps of the heating and cooling degree-days (CDD) for Morocco. Data from 37 weather stations around Morocco during 10 years (2000–2009) were used. The mean heating and CDD at base temperatures of 18°C and 21°C, respectively, were presented. The effect of the geographical conditions such as latitude, longitude and elevation on the heating and CDD was investigated using the regression approach and the counter maps were performed using the digital elevation model of Morocco. To provide more accurate information to building designers and engineers, the heating and CDD were also calculated and tabulated for cities representing the six Moroccan climatic regions at different base temperatures varying from 12°C to 20°C for heating and from 20°C to 28°C for cooling, with a step of 1°C.