A techno-economic analysis of PV solar modules attached to vertical facades of a residential building in a hot arid climate

Abstract

This paper investigates the feasibility of electrical power generation using differently orientated photovoltaic (PV) modules attached to vertical surfaces. The global horizontal irradiance (GHI) has been measured to verify the commonly used corresponding mathematical models. However, the solar irradiances on vertical surfaces are calculated concerning directional orientation using recently validated mathematical models of similar climates. A selected case representing the predominant construction style for houses in Kuwait was used to examine the PV configuration proposed on the house's façade at different promising orientations, east, west, and south. The total generated electrical power from the three promising façades (100 MW) is almost twice the roof's amount (57 MW). A detailed economic evaluation using lifecycle cost analysis (LCC) was conducted through a 25 years plan. It includes a suggested investment plan for the annual cash resulted from avoided conventional electrical power. Promisingly, the economic analysis proved that the vertical façades east, west, and south are feasible at payback years of around 8, 8, and 15, respectively; while the rooftop PV has the best economic feasibility by a payback period of 5 years. The outcome encourages policymakers to incentivize the vertical surfaces to harvest solar energy, particularly with the expectation of a further decline in PV prices.