Building-integrated Photovoltaic Applications Research Articles

BIPV for the high-temperature, high-rise, high-density cities of S. China: The related projects of PV HKU research group to facilitate BIPV application

In cities where high-rise commercial developments have overtaken industry as the peak electricity consumer, sophisticated building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) can offset the demand by generating electricity during daytime peak consumption. The PV HKU Research Group's related projects, in a triple strategy of Technology Assessment, Technology Application & Regulatory Framework, aims to provide the government and community with the information, experience and appropriate legislation to facilitate widespread BIPV applications, and assist compliance with the Kyoto Protocol on CO 2 emissions reduction.

Photovoltaics in buildings: A case study for rural England and Malaysia

This paper presents results obtained from a practical study of photovoltaics in buildings, in rural England and a computer model simulation study in Malaysia. It is a particular application of Building integrated PhotoVoltaics (BiPV) where the PV modules are fitted as partial roofing material. Data from a monitored BiPV-UK installation were analysed and compared with PVSYST 2.0 predictions. This computer model was then used to simulate BiPV applications for the standard school building in Malaysia, enhanced with a thermal computer model SUNREL 1.0β. Whilst cost-effectiveness has been a major issue in its proliferated use, the technology has been without doubt established. Based on the simulated system performances, it can be seen that the application of BiPV technology in Malaysia seems to offer a much better potential as has been expected.

Advances in amorphous silicon alloy technology—the achievement of high-efficiency multijunction solar cells and modules

Thin-film amorphous silicon alloy technology has emerged as a strong contender for providing low-cost photovoltaic products to meet the energy needs of the 21st century. World record 14·6% initial and 13·0% stable active-area conversion efficiencies have been achieved for small-area solar cells in our laboratory using a spectral-splitting, triple-junction structure. This 0·25-cm2 device exhibited a total-area efficiency of 12·0%, as confirmed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. Key factors leading to this achievement will be discussed. We have also demonstrated a 10·2% stable module efficiency for a one-square-foot area. A state-of-the-art, continuous roll-to-roll production line with an annual capacity of 5 MW has been built and started production. Building-integrated photovoltaic applications are being demonstrated worldwide. Public awareness of environmental and ecological issues has provided a great opportunity for the maturing thin-film amorphous silicon alloy technology to demonstrate its viability as a major alternate energy source. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.