Integrated PV in shading systems for Mediterranean countries: Balance between energy production and visual comfort

Summarization: Fixed shading systems are saving energy by reducing the cooling loads of the space they shade, but can be a source of energy losses due to the increased need of daylight that they create and the increased needs for heating during winter. Aim of this paper is the comparative assessment of different typologies of buildings’ shading systems with integrated photovoltaics (PV). The assessment is focused on their energy efficiency and degree of internal visual comfort conditions that they can ensure. The purpose of the comparison is to optimize the combination of shading systems and their integrated solar cells. Shading systems are grouped and studied according to their energy savings (production and reduction of cooling loads) and to the quality of the visual interior environment. For the study, computer simulations are used for the energy loads (needs/production) and both computer simulation and experimental physical models are used for the daylighting assessment. Moreover, through this research, the effect of specific geometrical characteristic of the PV modules installed is analyzed in relation to the energy needs and to the resulting visual conditions. Systems such as Brise–Soleil are proved to be the most efficient for integration of PV modules in relation to energy saving and quality interior conditions.Παρουσιάστηκε στο: Energy and Buildings Journa