In collaboration with the University of the Bahamas, we used the Charette model, the Three-point Approach and the conceptual framework: Build Back Better to propose a solution that involves several aspects: Reduced risk overall, increased social cohesion on the island, improved life quality and reduced costs during reconstruction in the aftermath of a hurricane event. Based on the analysis of the island, the hurricane and the important physical processes, a division between protection method is proposed based on the location on the island: collective and
individual protection.

Reduction of energy consumption and to increase its generation is necessary, as the population lives in urban settlements consume three-quarters of global resources, and these numbers are continually growing. Building-integrated photovoltaic panels (BIPV) which would assist for the resolution of the problem can be applied by replacing the façade cladding with BIPV panels whenever possible. The optimum orientation of PV panels for the Netherlands is south with an angle of 37°, which maximises total electricity production. While the process is simple for new buildings and systems installed in areas with no orientation restrictions or horizon obstructions, the scenario becomes more challenging in urban settlements. As the premises cannot be reoriented in an urban context, solutions may be finding the best places to install BIPV panels on the façade and tilting them. This process can be deployed simultaneously with the building refurbishment that is needed to reach the current envelope insulation standards. Tilting can increase the energy yield, but this would increase the production costs and thus, initial investment costs. The balance between energy yield and added production costs can be found by locating the right panel in the right place on a limited budget. In this study, an early-stage computational design method to optimally allocate and reorient BIPV façade modules to reach a cost-effective and applicable solution is presented. The method was tested in a case setting of a concrete façade retrofit.