KEYWORDS: Solar energy, Solar cells, Photovoltaics, Systems modeling, Control systems, Renewable energy, Climatology, Light sources and illumination, Solar thermal energy, Thermal modeling
This paper presents some of the research activities on building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems
developed by the Solar and Daylighting Laboratory at Concordia University. BIPV systems offer
considerable advantages as compared to stand-alone PV installations. For example, BIPV systems can play a
role as essential components of the building envelope. BIPV systems operate as distributed power generators
using the most widely available renewable source. Since BIPV systems do not require additional space, they
are especially appropriate for urban environments. BIPV/Thermal (BIPV/T) systems may use exterior air to
extract useful heat from the PV panels, cooling them and thereby improving their electric performance. The
recovered thermal energy can then be used for space heating and domestic hot water (DHW) heating,
supporting the utilization of BIVP/T as an appropriate technology for cold climates.
BIPV and BIPV/T systems are the subject of several ongoing research and demonstration projects (in both
residential and commercial buildings) led by Concordia University. The concept of integrated building design
and operation is at the centre of these efforts: BIPV and BIPV/T systems must be treated as part of a
comprehensive strategy taking into account energy conservation measures, passive solar design, efficient
lighting and HVAC systems, and integration of other renewable energy systems (solar thermal, heat pumps,
etc.). Concordia Solar Laboratory performs fundamental research on heat transfer and modeling of BIPV/T
systems, numerical and experimental investigations on BIPV and BIPV/T in building energy systems and
non-conventional applications (building-attached greenhouses), and the design and optimization of buildings
and communities.
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