CIGS Photovoltaics For The Urban Tropics

A study was done to compare the energy yield performance of CIGS versus MC-Si solar panels. Our studies show that the yield of both the panels are comparable, with a difference of only 0.7% with the MC-Si a bit higher. However that is within the limits of power tolerance for the panels and is not conclusive. A sunny day output power profile shows the CIGS panels have a significant advantage during the noon hours with a lower voltage drop and higher hourly specific yield. Our cost analysis of CIGS solar panels show that they are potentially cheaper than aluminum composite panel cladding (including system) and only slightly more expensive than ceramic tiles (panels only). Our analysis of the solar insolation (PSH) on east and west facing sidewalls shows they are about half the insolation on the roof. Although this increases the payback period, one would need to subtract the original potential cost of the facade that it has replaced. The use of PV panels also effectively creates a double skin facade structure and provides additional insulation to the building. This suggests that one could install BIPV solar as an alternative to the traditional building materials such as ceramics and aluminum composite panels at comparable costs. (C) 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.