Author(s)

Ali M. Memari, Lisa D. Iulo, Ryan L. Solnosky, Christopher R. Stultz

Department of Architectural Engineering and Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, USA.
Department of Architectural Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, USA.
Department of Architecture, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, USA.

Growing consumer interest in distributed Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) Systems and industry competition to reduce installation costs are stimulating the development of deploying these materials to the residential sector of the building industry. This emerging market continues to attract the attention of many stakeholders, yet cohesive opportunities to deploy in residential sectors, specifically detached single-family dwellings, is scattered. As a result, this study of literature and implementation strategies through simple examples looks to identify several characteristics related to BIPV. Characteristics that were studied in this initial pilot study were design considerations for system selection, applicability to residential construction, and system and material options and enhancements. A case-study home was analyzed demonstrating opportunity for implementation of BIPV on an existing residence. Strategies for maximizing the energy-generating capacity of the system to achieve net-zero energy performance, including all building surfaces and landscaping were also explored. This body of work provides a state-of-the-art review on common materials as well as the more customizable types.

Photovoltaic, Energy Efficiency, Solar Power, Single-Family Dwellings, Building Integrated Photovoltaic System

Memari, A. , Iulo, L. , Solnosky, R. and Stultz, C. (2014) Building Integrated Photovoltaic Systems for Single Family Dwellings: Innovation Concepts. Open Journal of Civil Engineering, 4, 102-119. doi: 10.4236/ojce.2014.42010.