Thermal simulation of BIPV systems using EnergyPlus

In tropical countries where high temperatures and high humidity rates induce the use of HVAC, the computational simulation has become an important tool for analysis and prediction of the performance of buildings. However, software present limitations regarding modeling some parameters, such as the simulation of building integrated photovoltaic systems (BIPV) by EnergyPlus. The software presents limitations for the modeling of certain parameters, such as the simulation of BIPV systems through EnergyPlus Then, this paper aims to investigate the features and limitations of EnergyPlus to simulate BIPV systems, in order to identify the influence of adopted temperature of operation of PV (photovoltaic) modules on the thermal performance of buildings. The method included a review of the EnergyPlus manual and computer simulations, where integrated PV systems were modeled on the external surface of a North facing zone, composed of different materials (masonry and glass). The PV model and the method of calculating the temperature of operation of the PV cells were varied too. The simulations indicated that the software does not consider the influence of the temperature of operation of the PV cells on the thermal calculations of the simulated zone. The mentioned performance may overestimate or underestimate the consumption load for heating or cooling, as well as it may influence the calculation of energy generation because it does not represent the real condition, neither provide
accurate temperature data.