Thermal and lighting energy benefits of photovoltaic glass in an architecture studio

Abstract

Buildings are responsible for 40% of the total energy consumption, which is critical for global warming. Thus, our buildings are expected to be renovated following the zero-energy building (ZEB) strategies. In the context of ZEB strategies, renewable energy sources are crucial. It is necessary to understand their role in a nearly-ZEB for future scenarios. This research aims to find out the thermal, daylight, and energy performance of thin-film amorphous-silicon ( a-Si) photovoltaic (PV) glass on an architecture studio of an education building at Izmir Institute of Technology (IZTECH) Campus in Izmir, Turkey. Simulation modeling and field measurements have become the methods applied in three scenarios to test the benefits of such a PV glass in terms of thermal and lighting energy consumption and comfort levels. Scenarios included a-Si thin-film modules in three transmittance values modeled in existing windows. Research findings propose that PV glasses have the potential to balance the room's lighting loads in a range between 15.1-and 20.3%. They improved occupant thermal and visual comfort by preventing overheating and glare risks. They also decreased cooling loads. However, an essential development could not be achieved in reducing heating loads since new PV glasses absorb less heat due to a lower g-value.