Analysis of Building Envelope Performance Effects of an Insulating Semi-Transparent Photovoltaic (STPV) Glazing Unit

Abstract

This paper presents characterization results for the electrical and thermal properties of a unique insulating semi-transparent photovoltaic (STPV) glazing unit using calorimetry hot box methods finding a U-value of 1.09 W/m2·°C and a SHGC of 0.11. These properties are then applied to an energy model of a case study commercial building in a continental climate region to examine the effects of utilizing STPV in the building envelope on the electricity and natural gas consumption levels and peak demands. The results indicate that such a building envelope can significantly reduce heating and cooling loads compared to standard glazing which would help architects maintain the desirable properties of highly glazed façades while avoiding the drop in building energy performance that could make adhering to increasingly stringent building codes and performance standards difficult. The paper also presents simulation results for the photovoltaic energy generation of the vertical STPV façades at two building orientations.