Architectural integration of photovoltaics in the building façade: a framework for architects' design process. (14th January 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ahmad, Mariam; Zia, Hina
• Is Part Of: International journal of renewable energy technology. Volume 13:Number 1(2022)
• Page Start: 84
• Page End: 100
• Publication Date: 2022-01-14
• Subjects: barriers -- integrational framework -- building integrated photovoltaic -- BIPV -- photovoltaic façade -- architectural integration -- thin film technology -- façade integrated photovoltaic system -- energetic building skin; Renewable energy sources -- Periodicals; 621.04205
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-3971

Abstract

Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) system, is a method to create a functional, energy generating building skin. Though BIPV has the term 'building integrated', the complete architectural integration of the photovoltaic system is still missing. To achieve architectural integration, it is important to understand the connotations attached to a building material for functioning as façade. Aim of this paper is developing a framework for creating a systematic process, turning photovoltaic system into the building skin. A sequential five step process is developed to create an efficient, effective framework to achieve architectural integrability and turn photovoltaic system into optimally performing building skin. This is achieved by identifying the barriers in the process of architectural integration and their assessment of impact severity, thus suggesting possibilities for viable solutions. The solutions to the barriers lead to the formulation of design strategies.