Energy saving assessment of semi-transparent photovoltaic modules integrated into NZEB

摘要

Photovoltaic semi-transparent materials (STPV) integrated into glazing systems can offerudgood potential for energy saving to buildings, influencing heating loads, cooling loads, and lighting,udas well as electricity production. Moreover, with the new stringent regulations issued by variousudEuropean countries, following the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD, 2010/31/EC),udthe building envelope, including the glazing elements, needs to have high thermal performanceudto guarantee Nearly Zero Energy Building (NZEB) behavior. This work presents an assessment ofudenergy saving potential of 4 different types of STPV with respect to conventional double pane glass.udDye sensitized solar modules (DSM) and thin film modules were considered in the study. Simulationsudbased on an IEA reference office building (STD) and on reference buildings prescribed by the newudItalian building energy performance regulation (NZEB) were carried out. All the glazing peculiaritiesudcould be simulated using only one simulation tool, namely IDA ICE 4.7.1. Dye sensitized solarudmodules resulted as the best performing devices for all orientations and climate zones. The workudalso evidenced how the requirements of NZEB seem to be too stringent for insulation properties,udespecially for the climate zone of Rome.