Building-integrated photovoltaics through multi-physics synergies: A critical review of optical, thermal, and electrical models in facade applications

Abstract

Given the overuse of non-renewable resources and the critical issue of excessive carbon emissions, the efficient utilization of solar energy, a renewable and clean resource, has become a central focus of global attention. Integrating photovoltaics into building facades has garnered significant attention as buildings become increasingly vertical. Various complex, random factors influence the building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) facade system, and its underlying mechanisms are highly intricate. This paper comprehensively reviews research progress on BIPV facade system models from optical, thermal, and electrical perspectives. It identifies gaps, optimization strategies, and future research directions. This paper introduces an innovative evaluation framework for these models and presents a quantitative assessment of representative models. In response to the limitations of existing studies, the paper proposes that future research should focus on developing a multi-factor coupled optical-thermal-electrical model driven by both knowledge and data.