ASHRAE Seeks Papers for ‘Efficient, High Performance Buildings for Developing Economies’ Conference

ATLANTA, Ga. – Papers are being sought for a conference focusing on the design, construction and operation of buildings in developing economies.

Organized by ASHRAE, along with the Philippines Chapter, the “Efficient, High Performance Buildings for Developing Economies” Conference will take place April 24-25, 2014, in Manila, Philippines. It is co-sponsored by the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute and endorsed by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials.

Abstracts (400 or less words in length) are due July 12. If accepted, papers are due Oct. 18.  Submittal information can be found at www.ashrae.org/Developing2014.

The conference addresses the challenges developing countries face in sustainable construction, such as rapidly growing energy demand, population density and urbanization, and focuses on aspects relating to design, construction and operation of high performance buildings, including the HVAC&R industry’s role in meeting this objective.

“The conference seeks to bring people from diverse cultures and climates together to share building design approaches that are responsive to local needs,” said Ashish Rakheja, conference co-chair.  A key motivation behind the conference is to utilize traditional construction practices.

“The papers and presentation will provide examples of how to apply the latest technology to achieve cost- effective solutions to support high- performance buildings in developing economies,” he said.

Papers are sought on the following themes:

Design criteria for developing countries

• Hot and humid climates
• Thermal comfort preferences and cultural expectations
• Impact of thermal design criteria on energy use and occupant well-being

Indoor air quality

• Impacts of outdoor air quality issues
• Potential application of natural ventilation

Energy efficiency

• Indoor environmental quality constraints on energy efficiency
• Reductions in emissions of global warming gases through use of renewable energy Energy impacts associated with water use

Standards and government regulations

• Green-building programs in developing countries
• Energy efficiency standards
• Indoor air quality and comfort regulations

Refrigeration

• Refrigerants: limitations and opportunities applications; e.g., improved food preservation
• Rural communities

Water use

• Lack of energy infrastructure
• Combustion using low-grade fuels

In addition to paper presentations, invited speakers from around the world will focus on the most critical challenges facing developing economy countries.