Determination of Heat Gain through Different Types of Building-Integrated Photovoltaic Façade Combined with Phase Change Material and Smart Glazing

¹ Energy Engineering Program, Faculty of Engineering, Khon Kaen University, Thailand
² Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
³ Centre for Alternative Energy Research and Development, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
⁴ Department of Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract

This study aims to design and evaluate the thermal performance of an intelligent building glazing system that integrates building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV), phase change material (PCM), and smart glazing (SG) technologies to enhance building energy efficiency. The system comprises semi-transparent solar cells for electricity generation, a PCM layer for absorbing and releasing latent heat, and SG for dynamic optical control. The research employed theoretical calculations under steady-state conditions to compare six window configurations under typical tropical conditions. The results showed that the BIPV-PCM-SG system in off mode achieved the lowest overall heat transfer coefficient (U-value) of 2.67 W/m²K and reduced heat gain to only 389.73 W, representing a 56% reduction in transmitted heat compared to a conventional clear glazing window. These results highlight the synergistic effect of combining solar energy conversion, latent heat buffering, and optical modulation. The findings establish a fundamental design basis for low-energy buildings and promote the Net- Zero-Energy Building concept, which aligns with Thailand's sustainable energy policies. This research provides a foundational guideline for designing future energy-efficient façades in tropical climates.