Impact of Urban Re-Densification on Indoor Lighting Demand and Energy Poverty on the Equator, in the City of Quito

Urban re-densification in Quito, Ecuador, significantly reduces daylight access and increases indoor lighting demand by up to 498%, potentially exacerbating energy poverty. The study analyzed high-rise buildings using simulation tools to assess solar irradiance reductions on facades, considering urban features and building locations. Findings highlight the social risks of unchecked re-densification, which can obstruct daylight by 40% to 80%. The research proposes height limitations for buildings based on street width—four stories for streets under 10 meters, four to six for those between 10 and 14 meters, and six to nine for streets between 14 and 18 meters—to mitigate these impacts. This work underscores the need for public policy adjustments to align urban planning with sustainable development goals.

Montes-Villalva, E., Pereira-Ruchansky, L., Piderit-Moreno, B., & Pérez-Fargallo, A. (2022). Impact of Urban Re-Densification on Indoor Lighting Demand and Energy Poverty on the Equator, in the City of Quito. Sustainability, 14(7), 3783. https://doi.org/10.3390/su14073783