Optical properties of opaque and light-transmitting photovoltaic systems in architecture and their influence on architectural form

Marcin Brzezicki


Faculty of Architecture, Wroclaw University of Technology (Poland)

Magdalena Muszyńska-Łanowy


Faculty of Architecture, Wroclaw University of Technology (Poland)

Abstract

Energy-harvesting systems installed on facades have an immense influence on the perception of architecture. Technologies at various stages of advancement are currently used. Apparent (clearly visible) PV elements (e.g. old-generation applied solar panels) are being replaced by technologies that integrate those systems into the building’s envelope using miniaturization, lamination and surface mounting (e.g. BIPV). In the current application of PV, three distinct trends ca be observed: (i) the integration of energy-collecting elements into the shell and (ii) their deliberate display and use as, for example, shading, cladding or other forms of decoration, or (iii) the development of “invisible” PV systems. The research question is how the development of these systems affects architecture. Does the process of integration enrich the building’s architectural expression or negatively affect the perception of the building’s transparent surfaces?


Keywords:

PV architecture, BiPV, PV cells, façade design

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Published
2018-03-30

Cited by

Brzezicki, M., & Muszyńska-Łanowy, M. (2018). Optical properties of opaque and light-transmitting photovoltaic systems in architecture and their influence on architectural form. Teka Komisji Architektury, Urbanistyki I Studiów Krajobrazowych, 14(1), 44–54. https://doi.org/10.35784/teka.1739

Authors

Marcin Brzezicki 

Faculty of Architecture, Wroclaw University of Technology Poland

Authors

Magdalena Muszyńska-Łanowy 

Faculty of Architecture, Wroclaw University of Technology Poland

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