Methods, technologies and challenges of building integrated photovoltaic thermal (BIPV/T) systems to achieve net-zero in high rise buildings: A systematic review

Abstract

As the global building sector faces increasing pressure to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions, achieving net-zero energy performance in buildings has become a critical objective. While rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are sufficient for low-rise buildings, their effectiveness diminishes in high-rise structures due to limited roof area and high energy demands. The integration of BIPV/T systems in high-rise buildings offers a promising path to achieving net-zero energy goals and decarbonising the building sector. This systematic literature review (SLR) analyses research from January 2014 to January 2025, exploring the role of BIPV/T systems in enabling net-zero energy buildings (nZEB), particularly in high-rise applications. The review identifies key advancements in system design, modelling approaches, thermal storage integration, and architectural adaptability. While water-based BIPV/T systems demonstrate superior thermal performance, air-based systems are more commonly implemented due to simpler integration. Advanced configurations, such as those incorporating phase change materials (PCMs), heat pipes, and concentrators, enhance energy output and thermal regulation, making them highly suitable for dense urban environments. Despite significant advancements in BIPV/T efficiency and design innovations, the review finds that less than 15 % of PV/T research focuses on BIPV/T applications, with even fewer studies targeting high-rise buildings. The review emphasises the importance of integrating BIPV/T systems with heat pumps, thermal storage, and predictive modelling (including AI/ML techniques) to optimise energy performance and reach net-zero goals. It also highlights the role of BIPV/T systems in mitigating the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect by reducing building surface temperatures and emissions.