Analysis and quantification of visual glare caused by photovoltaic panels installations in urban canyons

The abundant use of solar panels in dense urban areas is causing severe visual discomfort because of the reflection of sunlight falling on their surfaces. These intense reflections can cause a disabling glare, which impairs the surrounding building occupants’ vision and hinders them from performing their daily tasks. In order to better predict glare caused by photovoltaics panels (PV) the research study will present comprehensive simulations to measure the amount of light reflected of PV arrays to accurately calculate the probability of glare occurring on such case studies. Glare simulations will be conducted for every hour in the entire year. Additionally, detailed glare analysis will be performed by creating High Dynamic Range (HDR) renderings in multiple locations within an office building facing a building facade that is fitted with PVs. Subsequently, the simulation results will be statistically analysed to explore the effect of PVs on occupants’’ visual comfort. A detailed conclusion of the outcome of the quantitative glare analysis will be introduced as well as a brief discussion on future studies needed to improve visual comfort in dense urban areas