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A Novel Reflective Coating Strategy for Semi-Transparent Solar Cell-Integrated Roof Tiles in Energy-Efficient Building Design

Author

Listed:
  • Alim, Mohammad A.
  • Mamoon, Abdullah-Al
  • Malik, Zainab
  • Saeed, Nariman
  • Tao, Zhong

Abstract

While silicon-based opaque photovoltaic (PV) cells dominate the market due to their high energy conversion efficiency, integrating semi-transparent solar cells into building components offers a compelling pathway toward energy-efficient, aesthetically integrated urban infrastructure. This study explores the potential of reflective coatings (RC) to enhance both the thermal and electrical performance of semi-transparent solar cell-integrated roof tiles for building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) applications. Elevated operating temperatures above standard test conditions (STC) are known to reduce PV efficiency. Although numerous cooling strategies—such as phase change materials (PCMs), heatsinks, nanofluids, and microchannels—have been proposed, these approaches often increase system complexity and cost.

Suggested Citation

  • Alim, Mohammad A. & Mamoon, Abdullah-Al & Malik, Zainab & Saeed, Nariman & Tao, Zhong, 2026. "A Novel Reflective Coating Strategy for Semi-Transparent Solar Cell-Integrated Roof Tiles in Energy-Efficient Building Design," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 346(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:346:y:2026:i:c:s036054422600366x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2026.140264
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    References listed on IDEAS

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