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In the face of ongoing climate changes and the current geopolitical situation, Renewable Energy Sources (RES) are continuously gaining popularity in many countries. Objectives related to environmental protection and the use of RES set by different countries all over the world, as well as by the European Union (EU), are becoming priorities for many. The increase in the installed capacity of photovoltaic systems has been growing steadily for several years, leading to the creation of new systems accompanying PV installations; this phenomenon has also been observed in Poland. This paper presents a photovoltaic system in the form of a bicycle shed next to a school building as an example of building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) without connection to the power grid. It was shown that the energy consumption profile should be properly correlated with the production profile, otherwise significant losses occur. Alternative methods to improve the correlation of production and energy consumption by using SCADA systems or building automation to properly manage the electricity generation and consumption installation were also proposed. Furthermore, it was shown that adopting a fixed discount rate in financial analyses can distort the picture of real profits. An analysis of the changes in the NPV ratio using variable discount rates was carried out when analyzing the entire life of the solar plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photovoltaics have been proven to be one of the key technologies of electricity generation at building, district, and city level. Numerous strategies have been applied to maximize the performance of roof mounted PV panels, while the potential of building façades for PV installation is often disregarded, especially in urban areas. However, façade mounted PVs could provide high energy generation and be economically feasible especially in dense urban regions with low rooftop areas. This study presents an integrated techno-economic evaluation tool, to help policy makers and investors identify the most appropriate PV installation surfaces in urban areas. Moreover, the installation surfaces could be prioritized based on energy generation, economic profitability, and carbon footprint reduction. Results show that installation of façade mounted PV panels with optimum angles increases the energy generation and IRR up to 19% and 6% in south facades. The presented tool provides architectural designers, as well as planning authorities, a method to quantify solar planning decisions at the building and urban scale. • Propose a techno-economic BIPV evaluation tool for single building and urban area. • Find the most appropriate PV installation surfaces based on the investment plan. • Prioritize the BIPV installation based on energy, economic, and carbon footprint. • 19% and 6% increase of energy generation and Internal rate of return in south walls. • Refinement of urban planning criteria based on the proposed BIPV evaluation method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems, PV elements are integrated along with the building which often serves as the exterior weathering skin. PV researchers from various countries have been working for several years to optimize these systems. Sustainable BIPV system has many benefits such as the building itself becomes the PV support structure, and the BIPV components displace the conventional building materials and labor cost, thereby reducing the net installed cost of the PV system and building construction. It also provides on-site generation of electricity and architectural elegance, which increases the market acceptance of the buildings. The BIPV systems can be interfaced with the available utility grid or used as off-grid systems. This paper identifies sustainable building concept in South Asian countries and role of BIPV applications in sustainable building. This article gives review of BIPV applications in South Asian countries. Finally, Barrier and challenges of BIPV system have been discussed and future direction is highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an integrated bottom-up approach aimed at helping those dealing with strategical analysis of installation of Building Integrated Photo Voltaic (BIPV) to estimate the electricity production potential along with the energy needs of urban buildings at the district scale. On the demand side, hourly energy profiles are generated using dynamic building simulation taking into account actual urban morphologies. On the supply side, electricity generated from the system is predicted considering both the direct and indirect components of solar radiation as well as local climate variables. Python-based Algorithm editor Grasshopper is used to interlink four types of modelling and simulation tools as 1) generation of 3-D model, 2) solar radiation analysis, 3) formatting weather files (TMY data set) and 4) dynamic energy demand. The method has been demonstrated for a cluster of 20 buildings located in the Yasar University in Izmir (Turkey), for which it is found the BIPV system could achieve an annual renewable share of 23%, in line with the Renewable Energy Directive target of 20%. Quantitatively-compared demand and supply information at hourly time step shows that only some energy needs can be met by BIPV, so there is a need for an appropriate matching strategy to better exploit the renewable energy potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilisation of a dynamic photovoltaic system for adaptive shading can improve building energy performance by controlling solar heat gains and natural lighting, while simultaneously generating electricity on site. This paper firstly presents an integrated simulation framework to couple photovoltaic electricity generation to building energy savings through adaptive shading. A high-resolution radiance and photovoltaic model calculates the photovoltaic electricity yield while taking into account partial shading between modules. The remaining solar irradiation that penetrates the window is used in a resistance-capacitance building thermal model. A simulation of all possible dynamic configurations is conducted for each hourly time step, of which the most energy efficient configuration is chosen. We then utilise this framework to determine the optimal orientation of the photovoltaic panels to maximise the electricity generation while minimising the building’s heating, lighting and cooling demand. An existing adaptive photovoltaic facade was used as a case study for evaluation. Our results report a 20–80% net energy saving compared to an equivalent static photovoltaic shading system depending on the efficiency of the heating and cooling system. In some cases the Adaptive Solar Facade can almost compensate for the entire energy demand of the office space behind it. The control of photovoltaic production on the facade, simultaneously with the building energy demand, opens up new methods of building management as the facade can control both the production and consumption of electricity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arranging a solar irradiation map of the buildings of a city is a valuable tool for sustainable urban planning in regard to non-carbonized criteria in important applications. Such applications may include: selection of materials for the building envelope and insulation according to the irradiation received at each point; monitoring the installation of photovoltaic systems to ensure that they are located in the optimal irradiance zones; or building restoration to improve the energy efficiency and electric generation. The proposed method enables to estimate the incidence of the solar irradiance as well as to visualize the effect it produces in every region of the buildings that compose the urban area of a city. The process includes the use of Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) information along with 5-min horizontal irradiance data. This developed algorithm has been verified through being applied to different building envelopes distributed in different geographical areas. The results demonstrate a satisfied performance which makes that the methodology can be extrapolated to any city where the LiDAR Data and irradiance information are available, permitting an accurate analysis of the solar irradiance over the building envelopes. The algorithm succeeds in obtaining a map of solar radiation captured by the envelope of any urban building that estimates the photovoltaic power generation depending on the geographic location and on the influence of shading caused by adjacent buildings. The provided results show clear evidence of the influence of the shade effect produced by both, the building itself and other nearby buildings. Even if the shading effect is a factor that determines the irradiation gradient, the orientation of the facades has been proven to be the most important parameter in seeking a higher value of irradiation. As a result, south facing walls present wider regions with greater irradiance values, which are of interest for photovoltaic implementation. In addition, monthly analyses have shown that the best-oriented facades have produce their maximum solar power during equinox months, March and September. This method is considered as a useful tool for sustainable urban planning and for building integrated photovoltaics development. Although the entire envelope of a building can be studied, this paper is limited to the analysis of the facades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A photoelectric model for the curved PV module is built. • Vertical curved PV modules could generate more electricity in Hefei experimentally. • The curved module shows its superiority in the PV façade's electricity generation. • Electrical yield loss caused by the inner beam shadow is investigated. In the Building-integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) field, PV systems combined with curved surfaces are worth exploring to suit the aesthetic design and construction demands while related research is rare. The complicated nonplanar surface would result in inhomogeneous distribution of radiation, which would cause the electricity generation different from the flat module. In this study, we developed a theoretical model to estimate the curved copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) module's electrical power output, compared its performance to that of a flat module, and validated the model through experimental results of the PV modules with changing inclination angles (30°, 75°, and 90°) under various weather conditions. Based on the verified model, the flat/curved module's electrical yield with different inclination angles are analyzed monthly and annually. The results indicated that with a small inclination angle, the flat module performs better than the curved module while the curved module shows superiority in annual electricity generation with a high inclination angle in summer. The influence of the inner shadow on the curved module's electrical yield is investigated theoretically. The curved PV modules could improve the aesthetics of the building and increase the electrical yield in particular situations, demonstrating its significant potential for application in curved PV roofs and curved PV facades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We assess the environmental impact of a dynamic, adaptive, building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems. Such systems combine the benefits of adaptive shading with facade integrated solar tracking, thus reducing the building energy demand, and simultaneously generating electricity on-site. The inventory for the life cycle assessment (LCA) was acquired using production data, and Energy Plus simulations to calculate the building energy demand. The impact assessment was conducted according to ISO 14040 and ISO 14044 standards using the Eco-invent database and openLCA as an analysis tool. The embodied environmental impact of the dynamic BIPV solution is higher than a static alternative due to the added control system, electronics, actuators, and additional supporting structure, resulting in higher life cycle impacts. However when accounting for the systems multi-functionality aspect, i.e. savings through adaptive shading to the building׳s heating, cooling and lighting loads, the embodied environmental impact can be offset, making the ASF an interesting alternative for BIPV. We also conduct a sensitivity analysis to investigate modifications to the actuator type, control system, and location and find that none of the investigated parameters overturn the key findings. The analysis ultimately enables us to provide design recommendations for future dynamic BIPV installations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar irradiation in Brazil is favorable for electricity generation, yet this energy source represents less than 0.1% of the Brazilian energy matrix. This article presents photovoltaic solar panels as an important alternative in the context of the Brazilian energy crisis. Solar irradiations levels were considered to calculate the number of solar panels necessary to supply the average electricity demand of social housing programs. A scenario approach and an OFAT sensitivity analysis were used to evaluate feasibility (IRR, NPV, cash flow and payback) based on existing electricity charging policies and usual long-term financing plans for social housing programs. The results for all the proposed scenarios indicate that photovoltaics are an environmentally and economically feasible alternative. Deploying between four to seven 217 W photovoltaic panels onto each house would meet the needs of all solar irradiation zones considered, making dwellers significantly less dependent on the grid and capable of up to 47% grid feedback for up to 30 years. Finally, feed-in tariff policies and a trust fund for maintenance and reinvestment costs are suggested in order to stimulate the use of photovoltaics as a sustainable alternative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BIPV is an architectural concept that related to energy contribution. The system has functions of producing electricity as well as building form giver. The effectivity of BIPV depends on solar radiation received. Meanwhile, the solar radiation received depends on numbers of solar receiving area and environmental shading. Environmental shading will decrease the effectivity of BIPV. But, integrated configuration of folding-BIPV is expected to create more numbers of solar receiving area. The integrated configuration of folding-BIPV will create optimum BIPV, both in electrical generation and building form giver. Experiment to low rise office building in tropical climate is done by giving folding treatment. The experiment also considers about environmental shading. Evaluation is done by analyzing and optimizing the numbers and uniformity of solar radiation received. Simulation with ARCHIPAK 5.1 is used as experimental research tool. The simulation is used to calculate annual radiation received (kWh/m?) from folding-BIPV configuration. Manual calculation is used to calculate total annual radiation received (kWh) and uniformity percentage. Gradient diagram is used to do the optimation. Result of this research is an optimation of electrical energy generation in low rise office building which use folding-BIPV concept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Today energy-efficient and energy-harvesting buildings experience an ever-increasing interest and demand. Building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) may in this respect represent a powerful and versatile tool for reaching the goal of zero energy and zero emission buildings. The BIPV systems replace the outer building envelope skin, thus serving simultanously as both a climate screen and a power source generating electricity. However, snow and ice formation on the exterior solar cell surfaces reduce their performance and may also lead to faster deterioration. Hence, if one could find a way to develop solar cells which were able to avoid snow and ice formation on their surfaces, one would have moved a large step ahead. This work presents a review exploring miscellaneous pathways for avoiding snow and ice formation on solar cell surfaces including superhydrophobic and icephobic surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficiency of BIPV measured by comparing electricity output and electricity demand. Electricity output gencrized by BIPV depends on the amount of solar radiation received by PV panel. Some factors that affect the amount of radiation received are the tilt angle and the orientation angle of PV panel. This research try to rise electricity output by collaborating this factor with orientation principle in folding concept. The collaboration results in bigger surface area to receive radiation. Meanwhile, the reducement of electricity demand will be described in relation with users behaviour, both individual behaviour and communal behaviour. As the object taken in this research is an office building, communal behaviour will take more impact to reduce energy demand. Policies and strategies related to energy efficiency made by central operational management in office building will control communal behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New generation photovoltaic (PV) devices such as polymer and dye sensitized solar cells (DSC) have now reached a more mature stage of development, and among their various applications, building integrated PVs seems to have the most promising future, especially for DSC devices. This new generation technology has attracted an increasing interest because of its low cost due to the use of cheap printable materials and simple manufacturing techniques, easy production, and relatively high efficiency. As for the more consolidated PV technologies, DSCs need to be tested in real operating conditions and their performance compared with other PV technologies to put into evidence the real potential. This work presents the results of a 3 months outdoor monitoring activity performed on a DSC mini-panel made by the Dyepower Consortium, positioned on a south oriented vertical plane together with a double junction amorphous silicon (a-Si) device and a multi-crystalline silicon (m-Si) device at the ESTER station of the University of Rome Tor Vergata. Good performance of the DSC mini-panel has been observed for this particular configuration, where the DSC energy production compares favorably with that of a-Si and m-Si especially at high solar angles of incidence confirming the suitability of this technology for the integration into building facades. This assumption is confirmed by the energy produced per nominal watt-peak for the duration of the measurement campaign by the DSC that is 12% higher than that by a-Si and only 3% lower than that by m-Si for these operating conditions. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) panels are emerging as a useful technology for helping to achieve net-zero energy buildings. At this time, the main drawback with BIPV systems is the cost per kilowatt per hour of electricity generated. Besides cheaper production of photovoltaic panels, increases in their efficiency can be obtained by reducing panel temperatures. This is often achieved by adding a cavity beneath the panels to allow ventilation of the rear of the panel. However, the details of airflow in the cavity and the effect on cooling have not been rigorously researched. Life-time enhancement against degradation is also an effective technique to reduce the cost of electricity generated. Moisture ingress and thermal stresses are among the primary reasons for degradation of BIPVs; these processes are directly affected by air and moisture flow around the panels. The surface temperature thermography and airflow observations performed in this work helps to understand the transport mechanisms above and below the panels. For this purpose, a novel setup was developed consisting of a building model with a mock BIPV panel plus a solar simulator placed inside an atmospheric wind tunnel. Particle image velocimetry (PIV) and infra-red thermography were performed to simultaneously monitor the surface temperature and airflow above and below the panel. The study clearly shows how the accelerated airflow within the cavity increases the heat exchange between the PV and airflow and consequently reduces the PV temperature. It is also shown that the stepped open arrangement of panels is more effective in reducing the temperature comparing to a flat arrangement. This arrangement also has a better resistant against the air and moisture ingress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems are a relevant application of photovoltaics. In countries belonging to the International Energy Agency countries, 24% of total installed PV power corresponds to BIPV systems. Electricity losses caused by shadows over the PV generator have a significant impact on the performance of BIPV systems, being the major source of electricity losses. This paper presents a methodology to estimate electricity produced by BIPV systems which incorporates a model for shading losses. The proposed methodology has been validated on a one year study with real data from two similar PV systems placed on the south façade of a building belonging to the Technical University of Madrid. This study has covered all weather conditions: clear, partially overcast and fully overcast sky. Results of this study are shown at different time scales, resulting that the errors committed by the best performing model are below 1% and 3% in annual and daily electricity estimation. The use of models which account for the reduced performance at low irradiance levels also improves the estimation of generated electricity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] The first and the largest BIPV of Turkey were installed. [•] Single and triple junction amorphous module performances in BIPV applications are analyzed. [•] Total generated electricity of the BIPV system is measured as 103,702kWh for 36months of operation. [•] Annual energy rating is calculated as 856kWh/kWp for a non-optimally oriented plant. [•] The PR of the system is found 0.74 and 0.81 for PV systems on towers and facade respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper assesses the technical and economic performance of PV technology integrated into residential buildings in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. It highlights the value of PV electricity for the GCC society from the perspective of consumers, utilities and environment. Through a systematic modelling analysis it is shown that the efficiency of PV system drops by 4–6% due to high range of module temperature and also a change in power output due to high ambient temperatures. Consequently, the outputs of horizontal and vertical PV modules are found to be less than estimates based on standard test conditions. Economically, this study shows that building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems are not viable in GCC countries and cannot compete with conventional electricity sources on a unit cost basis. From a society point of view, however, the integration of PV technology into buildings would have several benefits for the GCC countries, including: first, savings in capital cost due to central power plants and transmission and distribution processes; second, an increase in the exported oil and natural gas used for electricity generation; and third, a reduction in the CO2 emissions from conventional power plants. When these considerations are taken into account then BIPV should become a feasible technology in GCC countries. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems is one of the most promising technologies and has recently experienced extraordinary growth. There is a huge consensus that these advancements lead to novel methods for domestic energy generation. Technical improvements, governmental supportive laws and financial aids are some of the contributors to this development. However, the proportion of solar power production as compared to conventional electricity generation methods is still negligible and needs more dedication. In this study, a large number of previous research works have been reviewed and reasons and solutions for BIPV success or failure are discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this work, three different geometrical properties have been considered to develop a new solar concentrator design for Window Integrated Concentrating Photovoltaic (WICPV). They are (i) elliptical entry aperture; (ii) hyperbolic profile section and (iii) square exit aperture. Due to the increasing demands for stationary solar concentrators for building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV), this new design focuses on the use as a stationary solar concentrator. The complete optical analysis of the concentrator is carried out via 3-D ray trace technique. The analysis is based on all necessary design parameters, i.e., elliptical entry axis, concentrator height and the exit aperture geometry, in order to obtain the optimal overall optical performance of the new 3-D solar concentrator. Four different geometrical low concentration ratios were investigated: 4×, 6×, 8× and 10×. Results of the computer simulation show that the designed concentrator of 4× concentration ratio gives the higher optical efficiency of 68% compared to the other low concentration ratios. The 6×, however, gives a higher optical concentration ratio, despite having a lower optical efficiency (55%) than the 4×. A prototype of the designed concentrator was manufactured and tested under indoors conditions. The experimental results have shown an agreement by a difference of 5% with the simulation results. These results highlight how different factors need to be taken into consideration when carrying out optimisation studies. Overall, the proposed concentrator looks promising with sound results to confirm its performance and validate it as a stationary solar concentrator and thereby promote its use in WICPV. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems may represent a powerful and versatile tool for achieving the ever increasing demand for zero energy and zero emission buildings of the near future, offering an aesthetical, economical and technical solution to integrate solar cells producing electricity within the climate envelopes of buildings. This work addresses possible research opportunities and pathways for the BIPVs of tomorrow. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems may represent a powerful and versatile tool for achieving the ever increasing demand for zero energy and zero emission buildings of the near future. In this respect BIPVs offer an aesthetical, economical and technical solution to integrate solar cells harvesting solar radiation to produce electricity within the climate envelopes of buildings. This work summarizes the current state-of-the-art of BIPVs, including both BIPV foil, tile, module and solar cell glazing products. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: PV technology offers clean resource and environmental advantages over fossil-fuel-based electricity generation; however, it remains more expensive than conventional technology in most grid-connected applications. The trade-off between environmental and economic parameters represents a challenge for governments. The objectives of this study are: firstly, to review studies in relation to the use of PV systems in the Gulf region and secondly, to assess the trade-off between environmental and economic parameters that influence the value of building integrated photovoltaic (BiPV) technology applied into the UAE building sector. This work examines residential buildings and concludes that the economic viability of BiPV systems is subject to capital cost, system efficiency and electricity tariff. To be a cost-effective option in the UAE, subsidies for PV investments and reasonable electricity tariff must be implemented. It is suggested that BiPV systems offer cost reductions in both energy and economic terms over centralised PV plants, especially if the costs of saved operating energy and avoided building materials are taken into account. Each square meter of BiPV is capable of making a significant reduction in CO2 emissions generated by conventional power plants. This will limit the impact of global warming on the UAE and others. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper presents the designed proposal of a solar PV and grid-connected electricity system with multiple modes operation for homes and buildings. It introduces to a more resourceful solar PV system that suits with the needs for different occasions rather have to be limited to one particular application. This concept uses a DC motor and synchronous generator as an electromechanical inverter to alternatively present popular approach of using solid-state inverters in converting the solar DC supply into AC, suitable to run common electrical appliances. The block concept of the system and the main controller with programming flowcharts for the multiple operations are proposed for a 2kW output power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Building integrated photovoltaic is an art and trend using PV module to replace building material on the outer wall. The semi-transparent c-Si PV module is installed to replace the tiled roof in this study. PV power generation prediction is follow with module performance, installation site and meteorological data. A simple model is created to simulate the power output using PV module thermal model. PV module thermal model is the relation of the module temperature, ambient temperature and solar radiation. In the present study, two parameter linearly regression model is to simulate the power generation in BIPV system. The monthly root-mean -square error (RMSE) is about 4.7%. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The degree of efficiency of Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) as a shading device and the variation of the electrical power generation over 1year in a real building has already been experimentally investigated in my earlier research. In this paper, the influence of the angle of the solar cell panel, albedo of earth, building azimuth, and of solar cell panels under shading on the power generation are theoretically studied to further optimize BIPV implementation. For the validation of the theoretical work, experimental results of the Samsung Institute of Engineering and Construction Company building are used with a wind velocity of the weather data (TRY, test reference year) of Suwon area, Korea. The efficiency of the BIPV system as a shading device was compared at different months. In this work, the simulation program SOLCEL, for the calculation of a shading/sunlit area on solar cell module and facade, surface temperature of solar cell module, effective solar irradiance on solar cell module and the power generation of a BIPV as a shading device, was developed and validated. The SOLCEL can be applied to develop a multi functional Building Integrated Photovoltaic which could improve power generation, thermal comfort, natural lighting, cooling and heating, etc. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A building integrated photovoltaic system as a shading device is used as an application and remodeling model. This study applies the simulation program SOLCEL and the computational fluid dynamics method to cases with solar irradiance components analysis and a ventilated double façade remodeling of the BIPV. For the validation of the theoretical work, experimental results of the Samsung Institute of Engineering and Construction Company building are used with a wind velocity of the weather data of Suwon area, Korea, where the real building is located. A photovoltaic system can be used only to generate electricity, but if a photovoltaic module can be used as an element of a double envelope, it could be more useful at the point of view of renewable energy usage and night insulation. Increase of PV module surface temperature is negative for power generation by installing PV module as an element of double envelope. A reasonable combination between renewable energy usage and power generation should be well analyzed for better usage of natural energy to design a BIPV. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Compared with traditional photovoltaic (PV) cells, bifacial PV cells can generate electricity on both sides. The study aims to research the electricity generation improvement of bifacial PV module as building envelope, and to find factors affecting its power generation performance in order to optimize it. A prefabricated building was renovated with two facades and the roof installed with bifacial PV modules. A test rig was established to monitor the electricity generation of the bifacial PV facades and roof, as well the indoor illuminance. It was found that the roof had the highest power generation per unit area. The electricity generation of bifacial PV module was simulated and validated. Through the simulation, the electricity improvement of the bifacial PV module was about 4.7%–18.8%. Then the simulation model was used to research the important factors to improve bifacial PV modules. The correlation between indoor light environment and bifacial PV power generation improvement is found. With the increase of reflectivity of the inner surface properly, the improvement of electricity was increased until the reflectivity of the ceiling reaches 0.8. In addition, the best coverage of bifacial PV was found. This study will provide optimization guidance for the application of bifacial PV modules in buildings envelope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building integrated photovoltaics is one of the key technologies when it comes to electricity generation in buildings, districts or urban areas. However, the potential of building façades for the BIPV system, especially in urban areas, is often neglected. Façade-mounted building integrated photovoltaics could contribute to supply the energy demand of buildings in dense urban areas with economic feasibility where the availability of suitable rooftop areas is low. This paper deals with the levelised cost of electricity (LCOE) of building integrated photovoltaic systems (BIPV) in the capitals of all the European member state countries plus Norway and Switzerland and presents a metric to investigate a proper subsidy or incentive for BIPV systems. The results showed that the average LCOE of the BIPV system as a building envelope material for the entire outer skin of buildings in Europe is equal to 0.09 Euro per kWh if its role as the power generator is considered in the economic calculations. This value will be 0.15 Euro per kWh if the cost corresponding to its double function in the building is taken into the economic analysis (while the average electricity price is 0.18 Euro per kWh). The results indicate that the BIPV generation cost in most case studies has already reached grid parity. Furthermore, the analysis reveals that on average in Europe, the BIPV system does not need a feed-in tariff if the selling price to the grid is equal to the purchasing price from the grid. Various incentive plans based on the buying/selling price of electricity from/to the main grid together with LCOE of the BIPV systems is also investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]