Finding the Best Station to Use Buildings Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPVs) in Eight Different Climates of Iran: Effect of Wind Speed and Photovoltaic Modules Type

Abstract

Buildings consume a significant amount of energy worldwide. Therefore, providing a part of this energy consumption with renewable energy, and reducing energy consumption, can lead to reducing pollutants. Due to the importance of the abovementioned points, this work aims to supply part of the required electricity in the buildings by using solar cells in eight climates of Iran. According to the available photovoltaic modules in the Iranian market, the study has been performed for six different types of solar cells. Considering the effect of temperature and wind speed on the efficiency of solar cells has made the results of the present work more consistent with reality. The simulations are performed for 25 years of the project’s useful life using HOMER V2.81 software, and the studied system is connected to the grid. The conclusions displayed that the Passive Emitter Rear Cell Silicon (perc-si) has the highest efficiency (21.22%–22.8%). Marand station is economically suitable (total net present cost (NPC) of 3180$ for a polycrystalline panel), and Gonbad station is appropriate because of high solar energy production (9183 kWh/year) and low environmental pollution (12602.9 kg/year). Due to the diversity and breadth of Iran’s climates, the results of the present study can be used for other areas with similar climates.