Use of Building Integrated Photovoltaic roof tiles in residential buildings
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A Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) material has a great potential of being used as a source of renewable energy for buildings. The purpose of this study was to analyze the cost-effectiveness of BIPV roofing for residential buildings in the United States. A total number of 70 sites, 14 each from five climatic zones in the United States, were randomly selected for the study. A general linear model was used to find out the cost effectiveness of BIPV roof compared to asphalt shingle roof, using net present values of both the roof types. Net present value of asphalt roofing was done based on available database of material and labor costs in the cities selected. Net present value of BIPV roofing was done using a simulation model developed by National Renewable Energy Laboratory. A similar model was used to determine energy savings estimates for BIPV roof. The results of the analysis indicate that the use of BIPV roofing is not currently cost-effective when compared to asphalt shingle roofing in residential buildings. However, the installation of BIPV roof tiles provide a significant saving in energy costs. The energy savings of a building using BIPV systems was found to be affected by annual heating degree days and location of the building.
