This study developed a framework for commercializing window-integrated photovoltaic (PV) panels along with overcoming the limitations of existing window system. The developed framework determined the optimal window-integrated PV panel among window-integrated PV panels according to 3rd generation PV panel type and visible light transmittance (VLT) by considering three aspects: (i) occupant satisfaction; (ii) energy performance; and (iii) economic feasibility. The developed framework consisted of three steps. First, data on building and window-integrated PV panel were collected. Second, various windowintegrated PV panels were evaluated in three aspects. Third, the optimal window-integrated PV panel was determined through multi-objective optimization.

Windows are a key design element that can affect the building energy performance and occupant psychological satisfaction. While smaller windows can increase building energy performance, they can also lower occupant psychological satisfaction. Despite the importance of determining the optimal window size by considering the building energy performance and occupant psychological satisfaction and their trade-off relationship, few studies have proposed a window size that considers both aspects. To solve this problem, this study proposed the following framework capable of accounting for both aspects in determining the optimal window size: (i) experimental settings for measuring the occupant psychological satisfaction based on the window size; (ii) virtual environment creation using SketchUp, 3dsMax, and the Unreal engine; (iii) measurement of occupant psychological satisfaction using questionnaire survey; (iv) measurement of building energy performance using SketchUp and EnergyPlus; and (v) selection of the optimal window size using the Pareto optimal solution. Using the proposed framework, even non-specialists of virtual reality or energy simulations can easily measure building energy performance and occupant psychological satisfaction by SketchUp modeling. Based on the building energy performance and occupant psychological satisfaction measured as such, the optimal window size can be determined according to building usage and conditions as well as client requirements.