Using Building Integrated Photovoltaic Thermal (BIPV/T) Systems to Achieve Net Zero Goal: Current Trends and Future Perspectives

Abstract

The rising world population and increasing shift toward reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have highlighted the importance of cleaner and more-efficient technologies such as solar energy harvesting systems. Among these, building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) and building integrated photovoltaic thermal (BIPV/T) systems are considered to be superior in supplying electrical and thermal demands while also enhancing the attractiveness of the buildings to which they are attached. This chapter introduces this technology and explains its role in achieving both net zero energy buildings (NZEBs) and net zero emission (NZE) targets. First, the BIPV/T concept is introduced, and then the processes of simulating BIPV/T system performance in both free and forced convection conditions are explained. Next, net zero targets are defined, and a number of studies that have tried to help meet net zero goals using BIPV and BIPV/T systems are reviewed. The chapter ends with concluding remarks and suggestions for future work.