ENERGY, ENVIRONMENT AND COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS OF SEMI-TRANSPARENT PV WINDOW-A REVIEW

Abstract

The building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems generate and save energy, counteracting transmission losses. In these systems, photovoltaic modules also serve as building envelopes in this kind of system. Thus, interdisciplinary concepts are required to realize the BIPV plants' functionality.  BIPV economic decisions are complex; guidelines suggest NPV or LCC are best for design design consideration. When energy saving is considered, the EPBT of a STPV system is found to be 3-3.2 years. Also, the thermal performance enhances embodied energy payback time, leading to more economic viability.For example, STPV windows cut heat gain by 65%. Renewable energy, especially solar power, reduces harmful greenhouse gas emissions and hazardous particulate matters. In the case of photovoltaic systems, environmental factors are crucial in analysing the cost-benefit aspects.. Finally, the outcome of this paper will work as a platform for the renewable energy community in assessing the financial and environmental aspects of STPV window/façade systems.