Photovoltaic-Integrated Buildings in Florence and Lucca, Italy: Case Studies

Abstract

When using the integrated approach, solar systems become part of the general building design. In fact, they often become regular building elements. This is due to the fact that integrating solar systems into the building envelope is often a necessity if the systems are to be economically feasible. The solar elements cannot be separate elements that are added after the building, or at least the architectural design of it, is complete. Rather, they must replace other building elements, thereby serving dual functions and reducing total costs.

The following case studies depict a coming-of-age of building-integrated photovoltaics (PVs).

These PV elements are specially designed for glass shading devices. The PVs will serve as shading elements for areas protected by the new system.

The overhanging shading roof provides adequate shade in the summer and allows for useful solar heat gain in the winter. These factors combined should help to keep the building’s running costs to a minimum. In conclusion, the simulations and testing at the design stage show that the overall environmental strategy will reduce the building’s running costs while optimizing visual and thermal comfort.

Integrating PVs into the architectural design offers more than cost benefits; it allows the creation of an environmentally friendly energy-efficient building.

The systems consist of crystalline PV modules integrated with a semi-transparent module. We also present an example of PV modules in thin films.