[Keynote] Solar shading for Thermal Resilience in Buildings: An overview and gap analysis

In the face of intensifying heatwaves and mounting energy insecurity, solar shading emerges as a critical yet underutilized strategy for achieving thermal resilience in buildings. Presented at the European Solar Shading Organisation (ES-SO) event, this talk by Prof. Shady Attia examines the evolution of shading technologies—from fixed passive elements to adaptive AI-driven systems—and their measurable impact on indoor comfort and energy performance during climate-related shocks. The presentation emphasizes how shading can reduce façade surface temperatures by up to 8°C, decrease cooling demand, and increase a building’s thermal autonomy during power outages. It also identifies key research gaps in regulation, long-term durability, integration with smart controls, and synergy with passive design strategies. The session concludes with a call for robust field studies, climate-specific guidelines, and policy support to mainstream solar shading in building design and urban planning.