Development of building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) system with PV ceramic tile and its application for building façade

In this paper, the single-crystal silicon-based solar cells laminated between tempered glass and ceramic tile is developed to be utilized in the building's façade. Firstly, the electrical, optical, and thermal properties of the proposed PV module are evaluated. Then, the wind-resistance test is implanted to evaluate the installation feasibility in Taiwan where have typhoon frequently. The electrical and deflection characteristics of the proposed PV module have no obviously changed after a 50 thermal cycling test and a 200 hour humidity-freeze test, based on IEC 61215, and a wind-resistance test, respectively. Finally, electrical power generation of the proposed BIPV system with 1 kWp electrical power capacity installed in a demonstration house is performed. The experimental results indicate that accumulative power generation is 185 kWh during 6-month monitoring period. And that, the exterior temperature of the demonstration house is lower than that on the surface of the BIPV system about 10oC. The proposed BIPV system not only provides the passive energy for its power loading, but also improves the indoor thermal environment by fluent natural ventilation.