BIPV Facades Reconsidered: Mid Rise and High Rise Applications

Results demonstrate BIPV spandrel applications can contribute in excess of 15% to the annual electricity requirements for highly efficient office buildings throughout major US climate zones. Assuming a 10 story 20,000 square foot floor plate, the maximum contribution provided by BIPV spandrel ranged from 35% to 52% based on the highest spandrel façade coverage and the largest south façade area. In comparison roof mounted PV systems provided a maximum contribution of 10% towards electricity consumption. A BIPV spandrel façade mock-up located in Sacramento, CA provided actual performance data that contributed to the findings. EPA’s Target Finder was utilized to provide annual energy consumption data so that the analysis could demonstrate the feasibility of approaching net zero annual energy consumption. While current research reveals the energy production limits associated with their vertical application; the net zero energy goal suggests a reconsideration of BIPV facades.