Can a physical approach be used to assess urban-scale building PV potential?

This study developed an integrated physical approach to assessing urban-scale building PV potential. The main findings in this study are as follows: The bottom-up, physical approach could reflect more details in sky diffuse, shading calculation, and PV performance, which could assess urban-scale PV potential with higher accuracy.

Does shading affect building photovoltaic (PV) potential?

Shading affects less on rooftops, but reduces up to 15% of facade PV yield in blocks. PV potential on facades is greater downtown than in suburbs, while similar on roofs. Assessing the urban-scale building photovoltaic (PV) potential is important for designing urban environments, retrofitting existing structures, or integrating PVs with grids.

Can photovoltaic systems be used in sustainable buildings?

The purpose of this study is to review the deployment of photovoltaic systems in sustainable buildings. PV technology is prominent, and BIPV systems are crucial for power generation. BIPV generates electricity and covers structures, saving material and energy costs and improving architectural appeal.

Can urban-scale PV be used for building rooftops & facades at high spatiotemporal resolution?

In light of the above analysis, this study proposes an integrated framework to assess the urban-scale PV potential for building rooftops and facades at a high spatiotemporal resolution using a bottom-up physical modeling approach. It contributes to the literature by achieving the following two objectives:

What is the PV potential of rooftops and facades at urban scale?

The PV potential of rooftops and facades at urban scale were analyzed considering the installed capacity and the corresponding PV power generation. As shown in Table 3, south facades have the largest PV power generation, followed by rooftops, west facades, east facades, and north facades.

Can solar panels be used in urban architecture?

This review explores a range of design innovations aimed at overcoming these challenges, including the integration of solar panels into building facades, windows, and urban infrastructure. The examination of these advancements provides insights into maximizing energy capture while seamlessly blending solar technologies into the urban fabric.