Performance Analysis of Dynamic Building-Integrated Photovoltaic Shading System for High Technology Readiness Level Validation

Abstract

This article presents the performance analysis of a new dynamic and vertically oriented building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) shading device. The work forms part of a Swiss Pilot and Demonstration project. From technology readiness levels 5–7, it aims to validate the technology's consistency and replicability in the operational building and cost-effectiveness for marketability. The shading slats comprise two-string PV modules realized with laminated glazing layered by an outer white satin glass pane. For the small-scale mock-up, two designs are compared to quantify the effectiveness of temperature reduction and energy gain: 1) optimized—each string is connected to a bypass diode, and 2) standard—two strings are connected to a bypass diode. It is demonstrated that optimized slats have consistently lower module temperatures and higher energy yield, achieving more than 20% gain during spring and summer. There are no additional risks for consideration since no extreme temperature and humidity measurements are observed for the pilot installation at the actual building. The first floor's system produces a lower specific energy yield due to partial shading. Still, it can be worsened if the standard PV is used instead, highlighting the importance of a BIPV-specific consultancy for successfully implementing BIPV systems.