The Effect of Shading Devices with Integrated Photovoltaics on Energy Efficiency of Buildings

Abstract

Due to the increase in urban population and comfort levels, the use of electricity in the building sector has rapidly grown. Recently, building energy demand has significantly increased. Buildings consume almost 40% of the world’s energy. Combining energy efficiency measures with renewable energy sources in an integrated building system will improve the building performance and consequently reduce the electricity consumption and carbon emissions. Research demonstrated that it is technically possible to achieve significant reductions in energy consumption with the proper combination between energy efficiency measures and renewable energy sources. Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPVs) have come a promising technology for energy generation and life-cycle costs reductions. In this regard, photovoltaic-integrated shading devices (PVSDs) constitute an essential part of BIPVs and play a significant role in electricity generation and energy consumption reductions. This research investigates and explores the potentials of combining PV technology in shading devices. Different types of external shading devices with integrated photovoltaic panels were examined for different orientations using DesignBuilder simulation software. The cooling loads, the electric lighting consumption, and the electric energy production related to the use of PVSD have been evaluated. The research aims at optimization of shading device configuration for energy efficiency and energy production.