Investigation of the Effective Use of Photovoltaic Modules in Architecture

Abstract

The application of photovoltaic systems is becoming a dominant feature in contemporary buildings. They allow for the achievement of zero-energy constructions. However, the principles of this strategy are not yet sufficiently known among architects. The purpose of this study is to enhance their expertise, which cannot be widened due to the shortage of targeted publications. The issue presentation was structured in a way that follows the typical design stages, beginning with large-scale urban problems up to the scale of building forms and components. Different types of photovoltaic (PV) systems are considered, based on their efficiency, relations with building fabrics, potential for thermally protecting buildings and their impact on esthetic values. The focus was mainly on the most popular PV modules. The application of these systems requires in-depth analyses which should be carried out by designers at the initial stage and through the next stages of the design. A method to analyze zoning plan regulations and site planning in view of PV modules’ efficiency is novel. This paper also contains considerations with regard to some other untypical applications of these systems. There is need for changing attitudes in architects and investors regarding the issue of promoting the systems through further elucidations.

Architecture and Engineering: The Challenges—Trends—Achievements

“…Architects and investors' distrust of photovoltaic solutions in construction is dispelled by Celadyn and Filipek [19]. The systematization of knowledge in the area of photovoltaic systems (modules) is addressed mainly to architects.…”

The Combination of Building Greenery and Photovoltaic Energy Production—A Discussion of Challenges and Opportunities in Design

“…In the third generation, there are many new inventions of various technologies. For example, a polymer-based system of dye-sensitized solar cells or Perovskite-Si tandem cells [29]. New designs of cells are cells with laser-cut holes for shading effects or transparent effects when installed in a certain distance to the eye [30].…”

“…They can be mounted on the ground, on the roof or on the façade. Building-integrated PV systems (BIPV) are in some way connected directly to a building component [29].…”

“…type of photovoltaic cells (as mentioned above, each cell has a different capacity; this does not depend only on the type, but also on factors such as the difference in production within each cell of the same type); • type of inverter (transforming direct current (DC) in alternating current (AC)); • inclination of module and system; • shade and reflections from the surroundings (built or natural elements [29]); • a fixed installation or tracking system that moves with the sun; • local climate (air temperature, wind, radiation, direct influence of rain, as well as annual differences in climate factors); • temperature of the cell (optimum around 20 • C [29]) and therefore surface materials below the panel; and • frequent maintenance of the whole system.…”

“…In addition to the generation of energy, PV panels protect the building from weather, provide shading from the sun, or work as an insulation layer [29]. Furthermore, if they are mounted to a building, no extra space on the ground for the PV system is required.…”