Applied single and hybrid solar energy techniques for building energy consumption and thermal comfort: A comprehensive review

Abstract

This paper reviews applied single and hybrid solar energy-saving techniques with emphasis on solar chimney, Trombe wall, and photovoltaics for building energy consumption and thermal comfort. Solar energy techniques can be broadly classified into passive and active. Passive strategies refer to collecting, storing, and distributing solar energy without relying on electrical or mechanical components. In contrast, active techniques rely on mechanical and electrical components. The discussed passive devices include solar chimney and Trombe wall. Different design configurations have been reported to influence various buildings' thermal and electrical performances. On the other hand, active solar strategies in buildings including photovoltaic technologies, are discussed. Moreover, applied the hybrid system of these techniques in building is discussed. The review paper critically analyzes these systems' energy and thermal performances to demonstrate their significance in building applications. The significant findings of these studies demonstrate the capability of these systems to provide thermal comfort and considerable energy savings. The review studies indicated that passive architecture could improve thermal (as high as 20%) and visual comfort and reduce electricity consumption by 46%. Besides, several highlights on BIPV and BIPV/T systems are discussed, showcasing their status, recent research, development, and applications toward achieving building energy efficiency. Throughout the review, it is seen that solar technologies applied in buildings have undergone a remarkable revolution, demonstrated significant energy-saving potentials and opening the road for application in net-zero energy buildings. Further research is required on some of the technologies to assess the techno-economic feasibility of these systems in the building sector.