Potential of Residential Building Integrated Photovoltaic Systems in Different Regions of China

Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) is a promising solution to provide building energy and achieve net-zero energy buildings. Based on the developed mathematical model, this paper assesses the solar irradiation resources and BIPV potential of residential buildings in different climate zones of China, considering the partial shading and load mismatch. It is found that the roof is the first choice for BIPV development, followed by south façades, especially in high-latitude cities, and then east and west facades. North façades could be recommended in cities with poor irradiation and frequent clouds. Specifically, the PV contribution of a rooftop and south façade BIPV system to building energy is highlighted, where the PV cover 50% of the roof and 40% of the south façade area. The system can meet the net load of a 4, 8, 7, 6, 4 and 4-storey building in Harbin, Urumqi, Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu and Guangzhou, respectively. While in areas with sufficient irradiation and low demand, such as Lhasa and Kunming, the system has the most potential, and can achieve net zero energy consumption of high-rise residential buildings. As many provinces have issued relevant policies to promote distributed PVs, the findings can provide guidance to BIPV deployment in China