Semi-transparent PV: Thermal performance, power generation, daylight modelling and energy saving potential in a residential application

In this research, semi-transparent PV is proposed as top light material for residential application. Using the results of field measurements, essential parameters pertaining to the power generation, thermal and optical characteristics of semi-transparent PV panels are understood. Calculation models presenting the above characteristics are developed and validated. The validated models are incorporated into Energy Plus to carry out overall energy consumption analyses in five climate regions in Japan to assess the energy saving potential of the semi-transparent PV panels. With appropriate optimization measures, the semi-transparent PV top light with 50% radiation transmission rate contributes to a maximum of 5.3% reduction in heating and cooling energy consumption compared with a standard BiPV roof. The effect of daylighting in lighting energy saving is subtle as most of the residential lighting demand occur during night-time. In the aspect of total energy consumption, net energy savings in the range of 3.0–8.7% are achieved for the 50% radiation transmission semi-transparent PV top light case relative to the base case of BiPV roof, where reduction in heating and cooling energy demand contributes most to the total energy saving.