Numerical evaluation of an optically switchable photovoltaic glazing system for passive daylighting control and energy-efficient building design

Adaptive control of solar heat gain and visible light transmission through windows is perceived to be a potential measure for enhancing energy conservation visual comfort in buildings. In this study, novel versatile window, named Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) smart was proposed offer simultaneous improvement daylighting control, on-site electricity generation building efficiency, compared traditional BIPV with static optical properties. The key components the system include an optically switchable thermotropic layer made Hydroxypropyl Cellulose (HPC) hydrogel, crystalline-silicon photovoltaic cells, clear glass low-emissivity (low-e) covers. can respond by autonomously changing its near-infrared properties, which amount radiation into spaces manipulated thus risks excessive heating illumination prevented. Apart from excellent modulation, window collect proportion scattered concentrate it onto integrated PV cells extra generation. An innovative methodology has been predict optical, thermal electrical properties under varying ambient conditions. Numerical simulations have carried out EnergyPlus window's performance when applied office-type environment climate Nottingham, UK. influence different design scenarios, terms Window-to-Wall Ratio (WWR), orientation transition temperature, investigated. It found that using achieve annual saving 36.6% but also more comfortable indoor luminous environment, counterpart (with no integrated), installed south-oriented office WWR 25%.