Optimal Semi-Transparent Photovoltaic (STPV) window based on energy performance, daylighting quality, and occupant satisfaction – A case study of private office in Chengdu China

Abstract

With the global warming, energy crisis, and the increasing application of glazing curtain walls, semi-transparent photovoltaic (STPV) systems have garnered significant attention for their excellent energy performance and daylight quality. The cell coverage ratio (CCR) of an STPV window impacts energy performance, daylight quality, and occupants’ satisfaction simultaneously, though these impacts can be conflicting. Therefore, this study investigates the optimal CCR of STPV for optimal daylight, energy performance, and occupants' satisfaction in Chengdu City, China through a case study. A private office room was selected as the base model. Energy performance, and daylighting quality according to the different CCR (10% to 50%) of STPV were analyzed using Honeybee in Grasshopper (GH), which is a Plugin for Rhinoceros. Occupants’ satisfaction was assessed through a survey conducted with ClimateStudio (CS) and Virtual reality (VR). The results indicated that the optimal CCR of STPV for this room is as follows: East (30%), West (10%), North (10%), and South (40%), based on energy performance, daylight quality, and occupants’ satisfaction.