Facade Integrated PV system uptake in Non-domestic Buildings: A Sensitivity Analysis of Multi-criteria Performance Analysis
Abstract
Integration of PV modules into the building envelope is obviously the paradigm shift in the building industry. PV modules with a greater degree of architectural appealing and facade requirements are slowly acknowledged. With the growing concerns of this technology, many more developments are introduced to eliminate the current obstacles. Besides, the system performances continuously shift due to various uncertainties in the industry, causing diverse decision choices. Therefore, this paper aims to investigate the potential uncertainties that alter the performances of the systems. Environmental aspect, architectural suitability and economic benefits are observed the most concerning performances of systems and are quantified using LCOE, NPV/kW and DPP, material offset and CO2 emission savings. The sensitivity analysis is conducted on four uncertainties recognized in industry such as capital cost, electricity conversion efficiency, conventional facade material cost and financial incentives. Assessment is conducted for the thirty-six facade integrated PV systems in Australia, North America and Europe with the limited to non-domestic buildings. It is noticeable that decisions should not be compromised by looking only at single decision criteria. The results revealed that the influence of capital cost, financial incentives and conventional building material values are substantial that electricity conversion efficiency. The projects reveal favourable economic performances even with the absence of financial supports by taking consideration of both direct and indirect benefits. It is promising to replace conventional building materials with the PV modules. Learning from the current experiences would be the ideal solution to guide future directions on research, investment decisions and policy makings