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Development of Wall-Integrated Solar Energy Technologies

Author

Listed:
  • Renhua Liu

    (College of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China)

  • Wentao Duan

    (College of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China)

  • Guoqing He

    (College of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China)

  • Qikun Wang

    (Institute for Carbon Neutrality, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China)

Abstract

Rising global energy demand, particularly in the building sector, has catalyzed a shift toward sustainable building practices. Buildings are now being redefined from mere energy consumers to potential energy providers, with building façades offering extensive areas for solar installations. This paper reviews recent advances in Wall-Integrated Solar Energy (WISE) systems that produce heat and electricity. A detailed comparison of their structures and performance is provided for various WISE systems, including building-integrated photovoltaic/thermal (BIPV/T) systems, attached sunspaces, Trombe walls, solar thermal collectors (STCs), PV–Trombe, Bio–PV, etc. The goal of this review is to understand the capacity of these technologies to produce energy via walls. The review concludes with key findings and future recommendations, aiming to guide the sustainable evolution of the building industry. Data from the literature suggest that building walls can be a promising energy source with the appropriate integration of solar energy.

Suggested Citation

  • Renhua Liu & Wentao Duan & Guoqing He & Qikun Wang, 2025. "Development of Wall-Integrated Solar Energy Technologies," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(4), pages 1-35, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:18:y:2025:i:4:p:952-:d:1592844
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    References listed on IDEAS

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