Design criteria for the integration of active solar technologies in the historic built environment: Taxonomy of international recommendations

Abstract

The paper focuses on architectural integration of active solar technologies (photovoltaic and solar thermal systems) in the historic built environment. Interpreted and used as a building material in the envelope, they are able to positively support energy transition and to contribute to climate change mitigation without compromising the original typological-functional characteristics. Their integration is fostered by innovative architectural design, aesthetical appeal, flexibility, multi-functionality, cost reduction, and technological development. Moreover, they can enhance economic value, functionality, and human comfort of buildings. Despite these advantages, there is a social diffidence on their acceptability due to policy, design, technical, economic and information barriers. To overcome these issues, the paper aims at identifying shared design criteria for their integration in the historic built environment, through a detailed assessment of 44 international guidelines. The study develops a taxonomy of international recommendations on energy efficiency, microgeneration, and solar integration, missing in literature so far, by analysing and comparing recurring criteria and recommendations. Also, a glossary of the most important terms according to the aesthetic, technical, and energy integration levels is created. Thus, the research defines an innovative framework of reliable design criteria, and a shared vocabulary to promote active solar technologies integration in the historic built environment.