Semi-Transparent Building Integrated Photovoltaic Solar Glazing: Investigations of Electrical and Optical Performances for Window Applications in Tropical Region

Abstract

Integrating solar PV technology with semi-transparent windows permits multifunctional operation as electricity generation and allowing natural light to enter the building, hence overall energy efficiency improvement. The performance of the semi-transparent building integrated PV glazing on office building facade has been investigated in Tanzania’s tropical climate. Experimental measurements of the electrical and optical parameters for the system efficacy evaluation were done at various conditions which included cloudy, normal, and clear sky days. The weather parameters under consideration were solar irradiance, air temperature, relative humidity, and wind speed. The experimental set-up consisted of building integrated silicon mono crystalline semi-transparent PV module rated at 50 W and accessories. The I-V and P-V curves were measured at different irradiances. Throughout the experiment, the observed module temperature was between 20°C and 51°C and the air temperature was 17–33°C while the humidity was recorded at the range of 23–63%. Module electrical efficiency was observed to vary from 4% to 9% while the visible light transmission was obtained between 11% and 19%. It was proved that at high temperature regardless of irradiance increase, there were observed output power and efficiency drops caused by high heat losses.

Low-consumption techniques in tropical climates for energy and water savings in buildings: A review on experimental studies

“…The results of this study showed a significant dependency of the PV module efficiency on solar irradiance, achieving the highest electrical efficiency of 8.89% at 1100W/m 2 . The system also proved to provide visual comfort during the mentioned hours and thus saving up to 19% of the energy of the room [16].…”

“…According to tropical climate Am: tropical monsoon, two experimental research in university buildings was implemented, both focusing on energy saving [10], [11]. Aw: tropical Savanna applied energy-saving strategies Institutional Building [16] and office [24]. The comfort assuring strategies in this type of climate was applied only in university [14].…”

Energy-efficiency measures to achieve zero energy buildings in tropical and humid climates

“…In the literature, several methods are mentioned to achieve NZEB buildings, but the following strategies can be summarized for residences [20][21][22][23]: (i) propose for comfort and function; (ii) determine an airtight building enclosure; (iii) plan controlled ventilation; (iv) include insulation that surpasses present energy code requirements; (v) certify the building enclosure controls water and moisture movement; (vi) position the building to maximize renewable energy production; (vii) choose efficient mechanical equipment; (viii) choose efficient lighting, appliances, and plumbing fixtures; (ix) energy modeling implementation to predict total energy use, identify high-value improvements to energy efficiency, and size on-site renewables; and (x) elaborate project plans that coordinate and commission systems.…”

A review of Building integration of Solar PV Systems

“…To achieve the goal of having buildings with net zero energy consumption, numerous parties choose to incorporate renewable energy technology into their structures. This is particularly evident in Europe, where the Efficiency in Energy Directive 2018/2020 mandates that the Renewable Energy Sector (RES) must reach a target of 32% by 2030 [37]. Many are aware that a significant portion of European buildings consist of historic structures.…”