Experimental Evaluation of PV-Integrated Windows for High-Rise Buildings
High-rise buildings, characterized by extensive glazed façades and substantial energy demands, present both challenges and opportunities for photovoltaic (PV) integration. The concept of multifunctional PV-windows combines power generation with shading functionalities, enabling efficient utilization of façade surfaces while enhancing energy efficiency. This research explores novel PV-window prototypes, aiming to bridge the performance gap between architectural adaptability and conventional photovoltaic modules.
Design and Development of PV-Window Prototypes
Two PV-window prototypes were engineered to address both architectural and electrical performance. The prototypes incorporated adjustable louvers to balance daylighting, shading, and solar harvesting. Material selection was varied between aluminium alloy and carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) to evaluate their influence on energy efficiency, structural integrity, and adaptability in building envelope systems.
Electrical Circuit Configurations and Performance Metrics
Electrical optimization played a pivotal role in performance outcomes. PV-window 1 exhibited undersized PV slats and higher internal resistance, reducing efficiency despite a larger surface area. Conversely, PV-window 2 utilized an optimized parallel-series circuit, reducing resistive losses and enabling higher current output, ultimately surpassing a conventional commercial PV panel in performance.
Comparative Analysis with Commercial Benchmark Panels
The study employed a standardized irradiance of 1000 W/m² to benchmark the prototypes against a commercial PV module. PV-window 1 underperformed, achieving only 6.4 W despite a 23% larger surface area. However, PV-window 2 demonstrated a remarkable 71.2 W output with a 336% surface area increase, outperforming the commercial benchmark by 4.7%, confirming the value of material and circuit optimization.
Field Testing and Real-World Validation
Real-world field experiments confirmed that PV-window 2 exhibited stable voltage and strong responsiveness to irradiance variations. These results validated the prototype’s operational reliability under dynamic environmental conditions. The integration of CFRP louvers significantly contributed to mechanical stability, lightweight construction, and improved efficiency, making it viable for large-scale façade applications.
Architectural Implications and Future Research
The success of PV-window 2 highlights the potential of façade-integrated photovoltaics as dual-purpose systems. Beyond energy efficiency, such systems introduce architectural adaptability by merging aesthetics, shading, and renewable energy generation. Future research should explore large-scale manufacturing feasibility, long-term durability, and smart grid integration to maximize the role of PV-windows in sustainable high-rise developments.
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