Photovoltaic Glazing in Buildings

Abstract

In the today’s demand of zero-energy buildings, the integration of renewable energy sources beside energy saving strategies are first priority. PV glazing is a new innovative technology which apart from producing electricity can also reduce energy consumption in terms of cooling, heating, and artificial lighting of buildings. The power generated from PV cells is considered green or clean electricity because its source is renewable and doesn’t cause pollution. At some point in upcoming future fossil fuels are going to either be gone or they are going to become too expensive to realistically to use. We are in dire need to generate and innovate new possible ways to generate eco-friendly electricity. It’s something of an uncomfortable fact that our civilized society is completely reliant upon fossil fuels for nearly every aspect of its existence. This paper provides an overview of the methods of Photovoltaic glazing process in commercial, residential buildings and their impact on buildings energy performance at various weather conditions.