Analysis of thermal and electrical performance of semi-transparent photovoltaic (PV) module

Building-integrated PhotoVoltaic (BIPV) is one of the most fascinating PV application technologies these days. To apply PV modules in buildings, various factors should be considered, such as the installation angle and orientation of PV module, shading, and temperature. The temperature of PV modules that are attached to building surfaces especially is one of the most important factors, as it affects both the electrical efficiency of a PV module and the energy load in a building. This study investigates the electrical and thermal performance of a semi-transparent PV module that was designed as a glazing component. The study evaluates the effects of the PV module's thermal characteristics on its electrical generation performance. The experiment was performed under both Standard Test Condition (STC) and outdoor conditions. The results showed that the power decreased about 0.48% (in STC with the exception of the temperature condition) and 0.52%(in outdoor conditions, under 500 W/m(2)) per the 1 degrees C increase of the PV module temperature. It was also found that the property of the glass used for the module affected the PV module temperature followed by its electrical performance. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.