Designing Self-Energy Sufficient Buildings in India

Abstract

The presented research work focuses on the utilization of alternative sources of renewable energy, mainly solar energy, for satisfying the energy demand in buildings. One such possibility is through Building Integrated PhotoVoltaics (BIPV) and improving energy efficient features through passive solar design in the buildings. The research team has studied two design cases, an existing building of 2011.12 m2 and a new building of 100 m2 ground area suitable for BIPV installation in Central Gujarat region of Western India. The paper includes literature review on type of field data required, parameters for energy efficient buildings, and estimation of solar energy generation on buildings, techno-economic analysis and feasibility of BIPV. The team's analysis on both cases reveal that BIPV retrofitting in existing building is found to be expensive over designing a building with BIPV as pre-thought. Also BIPV modules produced excellent architectural form and enhanced overall aesthetics of the building. The BIPV as pre-thought has been found to be cost effective since they just not act as energy producer, but also reduces the cost of building materials it replaces. Taking into consideration, the multi-beneficial nature of BIPV, we estimate the pay-back period to be 5-15 years depending upon the type of connection (Grid-connected or Stand-alone), amount of energy replacement by BIPV and the existing Government policies and incentives. (WC = 215)