A multi-objective optimized framework for window integrated photovoltaic systems toward occupants’ comfort and energy-saving in office buildings

Abstract

Window Integrated Photovoltaic systems have significant potential for improving building energy saving and occupant comfort, but their impact on visual and thermal environments are not widely studied. This study aims to develop design guidelines for photovoltaic-integrated windows in office buildings, optimizing both energy performance and occupant comfort. A prototypical south-face Office room was simulated in various regions at latitudes 34°-37°, representing semiarid, arid, warm temperate, and cold-semiarid climates, following the Köppen Climate Classification. The simulations assessed different Window-to-Wall Ratios (WWR) and Photovoltaic (PV) Panel-to-Window Ratios (PWR) to determine the most effective configurations. Results indicate that, in arid climates, large PVintegrated windows, as introduced in this study, achieve higher energy saving and visual and thermal comfort compared to conventional clear windows. The best configuration is equal to 50% WWR, 80% of which is a transparent PV layer.