Architectural Implications in the Building Integration of Photovoltaic and Solar Thermal systems – Introduction of a taxonomy and evaluation methodology

This paper examines the architectural implications for the integration of photovoltaic and solar thermal systems in new construction or extensive renovation of existing building shells. The study is based on a documentation of the current literature and a taxonomy of current and proposed applications based on conformance to a variety of building typologies. Additionally to the literature review, the paper delves on the investigation, assessment and categorization of existing applications, through case studies, analyzing the type and the function of each case, in order to identify the best practices for the different applications.The ultimate aim of this effort is to critically present the breadth of typologies of the plethora of alternatives available for building integrated photovoltaic and solar-thermal panels in ways that maximize their potential for solar gains for the purpose of addressing the power and thermal requirements of a given structure as well as its design.