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Evaluation of energy performance and daylight utilization in light shelves integrated with transparent solar panels

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  • Han, Sowon
  • Lee, Heangwoo

Abstract

Light shelves are a conventional method of daylighting, and numerous studies have explored incorporating solar panels with light shelves to enhance energy efficiency. However, the use of non-transparent solar panels has been shown to negatively affect daylighting efficiency. To overcome this issue, this study investigated the effects of combining transparent solar panels (TSPs) with light shelves through performance evaluations conducted on a testbed. The main outcomes include: 1) The ideal angle for a light shelf with an integrated TSP differed based on whether power generation and lighting energy consumption were evaluated together or independently. 2) Regardless of whether solar panels were applied to the light shelf, the uniformity ratio was less than 0.4, indicating the necessity for additional shading and lighting systems. However, integrating TSPs with light shelves proved to be more beneficial for enhancing indoor uniformity compared to monocrystalline solar panels. 3) To enhance energy efficiency and indoor lighting conditions, placing TSPs at the upper part of the window where the light shelf is located is recommended. This configuration enables energy savings of 35.7 % and 12.7 % compared with those of light shelves without solar panels and those with monocrystalline solar panels, respectively.

Suggested Citation

  • Han, Sowon & Lee, Heangwoo, 2025. "Evaluation of energy performance and daylight utilization in light shelves integrated with transparent solar panels," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 326(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:326:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225019784
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.136336
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    References listed on IDEAS

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