Optimization design of a new polyhedral photovoltaic curtain wall for different climates in China

Abstract

Most building-integrated photovoltaic systems have vertically mounted solar modules on their facades, which limits the efficiency due to the inability to maintain the optimal angle of incidence for prolonged periods. This paper presents a novel polyhedral photovoltaic curtain wall that optimizes energy production in different climate zones across China. Results show that, in low-latitude regions, south-facing polyhedral photovoltaic curtain walls require larger opening angles of the upper inclined surfaces to achieve maximum efficiency, while north- and east-facing systems require an opening angle of 90°. A convex-horizontal-edge ratio of 0.95 is optimal for south-facing systems, while a ratio of 0.90 is optimal for north-, east-, and west-facing systems. Extension the length needs to comply with local regulations. The optimized polyhedral photovoltaic curtain wall outperforms traditional BIPV systems by increasing total energy production and the energy output per unit area of upper inclined surfaces by up to 23%, 83%, 60%, and 104% for south-, north-, east-, and west-facing systems, respectively. Finally, China is divided into five regions based on climate, and roughly reasonable uniform design structure parameters are provided for each region, simplifying the design process, improving the efficiency and scalability of manufacturing, and ultimately reducing costs.