What is the impact of shading coefficients on cooling load calculation?

Shading coefficients represent the amount of solar radiation that is blocked by external shading devices such as overhangs, louvers, or blinds. A lower shading coefficient indicates more effective shading, which reduces the cooling load. Shading coefficients can be estimated using various methods, including the ASHRAE Clear Sky Model or the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) method. Accurate estimation of shading coefficients is crucial to ensure that the cooling system is sized correctly and to optimize energy efficiency.