The Design and Assessment of Building Integrated Photovoltaics

Abstract

This study evaluates the potential of a third generation Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPVs) to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability. To find the best location for solar panels in building, energy performance was modeled in Design Builder, using the USPCASE Building as a case study. There were four Scenario examined which were conventional PVs (22% efficient), perovskite-based PVs for windows (12% efficient), walls (16% efficient), and a combination of all three. Annual energy generation reached 23.9 MWh, 16.1 MWh, 75.4 MWh, and 115.4 MWh, respectively, corresponding to CO₂ reductions of 3.47 tons, 2.35 tons, 10.94 tons, and 16.746 tons against a baseline emission of 8.84 tons. The findings show that hybrid configurations and wall based BIPV systems offer the biggest environmental advantages, greatly reducing carbon footprints. In order to promote the implementation of BIPV technologies in sustainable building practices, these findings offer researchers, legislators, and industry stakeholder’s practical insights.