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September 10, 2025

Investigating the Effects of Solar Radiation on Residential Architecture in Port Harcourt Metropolis

GIGibson Francis IrimiaghaUniversity of Port Harcourt DGDouglas Sokeipirim GodstimeUniversity of Port Harcourt

Key Points

Increased indoor temperatures from solar radiation lead to discomfort and higher energy demands for cooling.
Current architectural practices inadequately address solar radiation challenges, necessitating shifts toward energy-efficient strategies.
Proposed strategies include optimized building orientation and effective shading devices to improve thermal comfort.
Integration of active solar systems like photovoltaic panels can reduce reliance on conventional energy sources.

Abstract

This study investigates the multifaceted eﬀects of solar radiation on residential architecture within the Port Harcourt Metropolis, a region characterized by a tropical monsoon climate. The study aims to analyze the prevailing climatic conditions, assess the impact of solar radiation on indoor thermal comfort and energy consumption, evaluate current architectural design practices and material selections, and propose elective passive and active solar design strategies. Drawing upon a comprehensive literature review of scholarly articles, this research synthesizes existing knowledge on solar radiation characteristics, its implications for building performance, and climate-responsive design principles. Key ﬁndings indicate that high solar radiation in Port Harcourt signiﬁcantly contributes to increased indoor temperatures, leading to discomfort and higher energy demands for cooling. Current architectural practices often fall short in adequately addressing these challenges, necessitating shift towards more sustainable and energy-eﬃcient design approaches. The article proposes a range of strategies, including optimized building orientation, eﬀective shading devices, enhanced natural ventilation techniques, and the judicious selection of building materials with favorable thermal properties. Furthermore, the integration of active solar systems, such as photovoltaic panels, is explored as a viable solution for reducing reliance on conventional energy sources. This study contributes to the academic discourse on climate-responsive architecture in tropical environments and oﬀers practical recommendations for architects, urban planners, and homeowners in Port Harcourt, fostering the development of thermally comfortable, energy-eﬃcient, and sustainable residential buildings. The insights gleaned from this research are crucial for mitigating the adverse eﬀects of solar radiation, promoting environmental sustainability, and improving the quality of life for residents in the metropolis.

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