Optimization of the building integrated photovoltaic system in office buildings—Focus on the orientation, inclined angle and installed area

• Published in: Energy and buildings 2012-03, Vol.46, p.92-104
• Main Authors: Hwang, Taeyon, Kang, Seokyoun, Kim, Jeong Tai
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Building integrated photovoltaic; Construction; Energy consumption; Inclination; Inclined angle; Modules; Office building; Offices; Panels; Photovoltaic; Photovoltaic cells; Solar cells; Solar insolation orientation
• ISSN: 0378-7788
• DOI: 10.1016/j.enbuild.2011.10.041

This study aims to analyze the maximum electric energy production according to the inclination and direction of photovoltaic (PV) installations and the effects of the installation distance to the module length ratio. The annual solar insolation on PV panels was calculated for various façades of two buildings, and an analysis of different horizontal and vertical inclinations of PV panels was also conducted in consideration of the effects of panel shading from other panels and surrounding buildings. As a result, the electric energy production due to the use of the PV system can cover approximately 1–5% of the electric energy consumption of a typical office building in Korea in terms of proper combinations of the following installation factors: inclination, module type, installation distance to module length ratio, and direction. However, if in the building all measures, currently known and technically available would be implemented, the percentage of covering by PV can be significantly bigger.