Towards a digital workflow to assess visual impact of solar modules and their operation within energy-hubs

Pietro Florio,Jean-Louis Scartezzini,Silvia Coccolo,A.T.D Perera

doi:10.1088/1742-6596/1343/1/012106

Abstract

This study proposes an integrated methodology to assess the BIPV potential of existing urban neighborhoods, including social acceptance and grid infrastructure management issues; as a demonstration, a case study in Geneva, Switzerland is considered. In particular, the annual solar radiation on the outdoor exposed areas is calculated on an hourly basis and converted into electricity by considering standard monocrystalline PV modules. Social acceptability is evaluated on a discrete qualitative scale, based on the average visibility of the building envelope from the public space and assessed through a psychophysically reliable indicator. Three different envelope surface coverage ratios are assumed for BIPV, i.e. for low, medium and high visibility respectively. Renewable electricity generation is used to match the hourly electricity demand for lighting, appliances as well as an air-to-air heat pump that covers heating and cooling needs. Excess electricity is used within multi energy hubs featuring PV panels, a battery bank and an internal combustion generator; as a last resort, electricity is injected to the grid. As such, the levelized cost of energy and the grid integration level can be calculated at each time step. The financial outcome of the analysis may be used to explore novel business models for solar energy renovations in urban contexts.

Highlights

International organizations are fostering the renewable energy targets to meet more ambitious climate change mitigation goals
This study proposes an integrated methodology to assess the BIPV potential of existing urban neighborhoods, including social acceptance and grid infrastructure management issues; as a demonstration, a case study in Geneva, Switzerland is considered
Such indicator focuses on an important aspect of social acceptance, which is the visibility of BIPV systems from the public space [8]

Summary

Introduction

International organizations are fostering the renewable energy targets to meet more ambitious climate change mitigation goals. Beyond larger renewable production shares, the “Clean Energy for allEuropeans” legislative package aims at enhancing the role of citizens as “active consumers” [1] - [Art. 15], and “Renewables Self-Consumers” [2] - [Art. 21]. These concepts imply a more active engagement of local communities and contribute to make climate changes a social priority: citizens have the right to produce their own energy. Some interesting experiences of “solar” purchasing cooperatives have been attempted in this sense, allowing for a solar thermal cost reduction of up to 50% and for PV cost reduction of 15-20% [5]

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