PSAT: A knowledge-based decision support tool for selecting passive energy consumption optimisation strategies in buildings

Achieving net-zero energy targets is closely linked to the optimisation of building-related activities, given their significant share in global energy consumption (approximately 40%) and greenhouse gas emissions (around 33%). The substantial energy demands of active systems, such as energy recovery ventilation systems for heating and cooling, have increasingly directed research efforts towards the investigation of passive design strategies in recent years. Selecting the most sustainable passive energy consumption optimisation strategy for buildings is a complex and challenging task for practitioners, as it requires the consideration of multiple criteria, including technical, economic, and social factors. Therefore, this study aims to develop a knowledge-based decision support tool titled the PSAT for the selection of passive strategies for buildings. Initially, drivers and barriers to the adoption of passive strategies, the criteria involved in the selection of passive strategies, and the existing passive strategies were identified. This was followed by generating a novel multiple criteria decision-making (MCDM) algorithm by hybridising evaluation based on distance from average solution (EDAS) and criteria importance through inter criteria correlation (CRITIC) methods. Then, graphical user interface (GUI) was developed for the PSAT using CustomTkinter, an innovative and customisable Python UI library which allows for the design of modern interfaces, providing a more user-friendly environment for decision-makers. The PSAT was then validated by experts and obtained the efficiency score of 4.76 out of 5. Finally, a thematic analysis was performed to identify the key themes within the suggestions provided by the validating experts regarding future development of the PSAT. This tool can considerably facilitate the selection of passive strategies for practitioners, consequently enhancing the realisation of critical Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially “Sustainable Cities and Communities”.