Provides a comparative analysis of the energy performance of various insulation configurations for earth-sheltered buildings. Discusses the effectiveness of each insulation configuration in reducing the heating and cooling load. Considers the long-term unsteady thermal processes between the building and the surrounding soil using a mathematical model of the problem. A simulation program SHELTER permits a two-dimensional thermal analysis in two cross-sections to be carried out for an underground building of any size situated at any depth. It predicts the heat flow between the building and the surrounding soil and through the ground's surface. Internal building surface and soil temperature are also calculated.

KEYWORDS: Thermal insulation, calculating, computer programs, earth sheltered buildings