Exploring köppen-geiger climate classification of the ashrae RP-884 database

Abstract

The Köppen-Geiger climate classification system is the most widely used and refereed model in the world from various disciplines. This is also the case of thermal comfort studies. In recent years, several thermal comfort authors considered the Köppen-Geiger climate map introduced by Kottek research group in their investigations; however, most of the studies ignored the updated version made by Peel group. This investigation addressed the climate types of the reported site locations from ASHRAE RP-884 for naturally ventilated buildings. The analysis was made based on the Köppen-Geiger climate maps from various sources and the new LocClim 1.10 software. The climate type of each location was identified. Some contradicting results were reported. Those were further investigated and discussed in this study. It is recommended to report the exact geographic coordinates of the location under investigation. Further, the Köppen-Geiger map or method used in identifying the location under consideration is recommended to be clearly specified to avoid contradicting information. This is because the climate type of some locations is subjected to yearly variation.