Despite the rapid increase in energy demand in Palestinian office buildings and the widespread, imitation-driven adoption of fully glazed façades, locally adapted façade design and retrofit guidelines remain absent. Consequently, a significant research gap exists in understanding the performance-based potential of glazing retrofit strategies to enhance thermal performance, reduce heating and cooling loads, and improve energy and cost effectiveness under the specific climatic and political conditions of Palestinian cities. This research thoroughly assesses the energy and cost impacts associated with retrofitting glazed façades in office buildings across Palestine, aiming to develop environmental retrofit solutions adaptable to the specific microclimatic conditions of Hebron city. Simulations tested shading devices, advanced glazing types, and multi-glazed skin façades, both separately and in combination, to identify the best solutions for improving the overall energy and cost performance of glazed façades. Three office buildings were selected as case studies, each with a single-glazed facade facing a different orientation. Cases were simulated using Design Builder software. The results show the best retrofit option for each case to save the most energy and obtain long-term financial benefits. These two factors were the focus of the evaluation. The results suggest a combination that works well in function and cost, achieving energy savings between 38% and 81% in the retrofit scenarios, depending on the specific conditions. In terms of cost, the study shows that applying the optimal retrofit scenario can lead to annual savings of approximately $149 to $442. This insight encourages engineers and investors to adopt a cost-effective, environmentally friendly approach for improving energy and cost efficiency in existing office buildings.
Copyrights © 2026