Passive solar heated buildings for enhancing sustainability in the Indian Himalayas

This systematic literature review explores the transformative potential of passive solar heating architecture in advancing building sustainability within the Indian Himalayan Region. The primary objective is to elucidate the role of passive solar heating system in advancing carbon neutrality within the specific environmental constraints and cultural framework of the region, identifying 842 pieces of research literature with additional data sourced from significant reports and datasets to investigate the subject domain. Inclusion criteria focused on studies that align with the Indian Himalayan Region's traditional architectural practices, passive solar design principles, environmental conditions, and sustainable architecture. The methodology also involved quality assessments to ensure the robustness of the selected literature. Key findings highlight the current status, challenges, and key strategies for adopting passive solar-heated buildings in the Indian Himalayan Region, considering climatic, resource, and cultural factors. It emphasizes passive solar heating's potential, blending traditional and modern sustainability by exploring innovative space heating solutions to reduce carbon emission. The research evaluates economic, social-cultural, and environmental feasibility, identifies gaps and future prospects for its practical use. The study reveals the absence of region-specific policies and regulations, signaling a critical gap. The inferences of this review extend to policymakers, architects, and local communities in the Indian Himalayan Region. Practical recommendations include the development of green skill-building programs and incentives for sustainable energy practices. Future research should explore climate change adaptation, community engagement, and innovative materials to promote sustainable building practices. [Display omitted] •Integration of energy-efficient designs, renewable energy sources, and resilient construction techniques in the Himalayan region can significantly reduce carbon footprints and provide energy access solutions.•Investigation of innovative materials to enhance thermal efficiency of PSHBs, alongside optimization of insulation and orientation strategies.•Emphasis on long-term benefits, demonstrating how PSHBs mitigate costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.•Combination of indigenous thermal efficacy principles and modern sustainability reshape building designs to address climatic challenges.