Potentials of Fibre Optic Daylighting Systems in Najran University College of Engineering Corridors

Abstract

Effective use of natural light in buildings significantly reduces energy consumption by minimizing the need for artificial lighting. This study investigates daylight wastage in Najran University's College of Engineering due to insufficient policy implementation and underutilization of daylight technology during the design phase, despite ample available daylight. Using a mixed-method approach, the study found that 42.6% strongly agreed, and 57.6% agreed that daylight is wasted, while 21% had no opinion on this matter. Regarding technology, 42.4% both strongly agreed and agreed, but 54.5% did not know about fiber optic daylight system (FODS) harvesting. Policy implementation is crucial, with 42.4% having no awareness of daylight legislation, and 45.5% not having used daylighting codes before. Interestingly, 48.5% agreed, and 36.4% strongly agreed with the significance of daylighting in LEED and MOSTADAM ratings in Saudi Arabia. Observations indicated that roof-mounted daylight collectors using fiber optics were most effective throughout the day, followed by walls, particularly on the northern and southern facades. Basements were the least favorable due to limited access to daylight. In conclusion, this study highlights the potential of fiber optics for daylight harvesting, whether in retrofitting or new building design, given the region's abundant daylight.