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Challenges and Optimization of Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) Windows: A Review

Author

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  • Shaohang Shi

    (School of Architecture, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100080, China
    Key Laboratory of Eco Planning & Green Building, Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100080, China)

  • Ning Zhu

    (School of Architecture, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100080, China
    Key Laboratory of Eco Planning & Green Building, Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100080, China)

Abstract

PV windows are seen as potential candidates for conventional windows. Improving the comprehensive performance of PV windows in terms of electrical, optical, and heat transfer has received increasing attention. This paper reviews the development of BIPV façade technologies and summarizes the related experimental and simulation studies. Based on the results of the literature research, the average comprehensive energy-saving rate of BIPV façades can reach 37.18%. Furthermore, limitations and optimization directions of photovoltaic integrated shading devices (PVSDs), photovoltaic double-skin façades, and photovoltaic windows are presented. To improve the energy-saving potential of windows as non-energy efficiency elements of buildings, smart PV windows are proposed to be the key to breakthrough comprehensive performance. However, not all switchable windows concepts can be applied to PV windows. Typical studies on smart windows and PV windows are sorted out to summarize the challenges and optimization of smart PV window technical solutions. Considering the technological innovations in smart PV windows, two requirements of energy-saving materials and building envelopes are put forward. The advances in materials and the building envelope are complementary, which will promote the sophistication and promotion of solar building technology.

Suggested Citation

  • Shaohang Shi & Ning Zhu, 2023. "Challenges and Optimization of Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) Windows: A Review," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(22), pages 1-30, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:15:y:2023:i:22:p:15876-:d:1278776
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Parascanu, Maria Magdalena & Keiner, Dominik & Breyer, Christian & Macé, Philippe & Lizasoain-Arteaga, Esther, 2025. "Comprehensive prospective environmental assessment of innovative photovoltaic technologies: Integration into electricity grids in Finland, Germany, and Spain," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 315(C).
    2. Jurgis Zagorskas & Zenonas Turskis, 2025. "Performance Evaluation and Integration Strategies for Solar Façades in Diverse Climates: A State-of-the-Art Review," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(3), pages 1-31, January.
    3. Shi, Shaohang & Zhu, Ning & Wu, Shuangdui & Song, Yehao, 2024. "Evaluation and analysis of transmitted daylight color quality for different colored semi-transparent PV glazing," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 222(C).
    4. Diana D’Agostino & Federico Minelli & Francesco Minichiello, 2025. "HVAC System Energy Retrofit for a University Lecture Room Considering Private and Public Interests," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(6), pages 1-19, March.
    5. Shi, Shaohang & Zhu, Ning & Li, Yifan & Song, Yehao, 2024. "Photo-thermal decoupling CdTe PV windows with selectively near-infrared absorbing ATO nanofluids," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 235(C).

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