This position paper explains the relevance, potential and present status of development and market of building solar envelope systems contributing to HVAC and lighting of buildings, leading to actions needed to best exploit their integration into building design practices. It addresses policy and decisionmakers as well as influencers and aims to present high-level information as a basis for uptake and further development.
 

This is a product/photo gallery of Building Integrated Solar Envelope Systems.  it is broken down into:
-- Solar Energy Harvesting Systems
-- Solar Gains Control Systems
-- Hybrid Solar Energy Systems

The focus of this IEA SHC Solar Academy webinar is on the assessment, onsite monitoring and simulation of building-integrated solar envelope systems, which is presented by three Task 56 experts: Roberto Fedrizzi, Fabian Ochs, Martin Hauer. The Moderator is Bärbel Epp, founder and managing director of the German consultancy solrico for solar market research & international communication. The 90-minute webinar includes a 30 minutes Q/A session. The webinar was organized by the Solar Academy of the IEA SHC Programme and hosted by ISES, the International Solar Energy Society.

The present document includes a state-of-the-art review of solar envelope systems that are already on the market or that can potentially reach that stage in a short-medium timeframe. The analysis focuses on the technological integration of such solutions in the envelope and building, but non-technical issues such as aesthetic, architectural integration and customer acceptance are also tackled. The solar envelope systems are classified in: Solar harvesting systems: systems that generate electricity or heat; Solar gains control systems, controlling; Hybrid systems: combination of solar harvesting and solar gains control systems.

Task 56 is part of the Solar Heating and Cooling Programme (SHC) of the International Energy Agency (IEA). Within Task 56, Subtask B aims to develop tools and strategies to foster the market penetration for industrialised solar envelope systems. This report outlines strategies for stakeholders of solar building envelopes (SBE) in order to deal with some of the market barriers that have been identified in a previous report (DB.1). The current report focuses on strategies for SBE manufacturers but includes strategies for other SBE stakeholders such as policy makers, architects, building owners and industry associations. In section 2, strategies are discussed to enhance the commercial success of SBE technologies in the current market situation. Section 3 then discusses strategies with regard to future changes in legal frameworks and boundary conditions. A summary of the proposed strategies is presented at the end.

This report presents an analysis of current test methods that can be applied to Solar Building Envelope (SBE) technologies. Relevant standards for construction products, solar thermal collectors, photovoltaics, daylighting systems, ventilation devices and heat pumps are selected and assessed. The selection includes the most important standards for fire protection as applied to SBE technologies. For each standard, the report assesses its applicability to SBE technologies. At the end, recommendations are presented on how current standards and regulations could be improved to prepare the ground for a wider adoption of SBE systems.

Building Integrated Solar Envelope (BISE) technologies face a number barriers despite their potential (see Deliverable DB1 of the IEA SHC Task 56 for a detailed description of barriers). BISE technologies have a highly innovative character and often require that different professional disciplines interact closely in the manufacturing, installation and operation phases. For example, the implementation of solar thermal venetian blinds forces novel interactions between a façade manufacturer and a HVAC designer during the design and installation phases, which implies the need of new procedures and costs. The need to develop new know-how in a wide range of topics hinders the development of new technologies.

This report presents a review about simulation models of building integrated solar envelopes. The models can be used to predict the performance of a building integrated solar envelope for a specific case. Such cases include a building, a technical building plant and a location and climate. The performance of a building integrated solar envelope depends on the case. Therefore, it is very important for building projects that the performance of a building integrated solar envelope can be predicted easily and accurately.

This report is a result of extensive discussions within Task 56 of the Solar Heating and Cooling Programme (SHC) of the International Energy Agency (IEA). Innovative solar envelope technologies face multiple barriers, which prevent some of these innovations from contributing significantly against climate change. This report presents the barriers that the experts of Task 56 are aware of so that developers of integrated solar envelope systems could benefit of, at an early stage of their planning phase.

Different approaches for investigating Solar Envelope Systems are required for residential and office buildings. This report has the goal to describe the different methods used for non-residential (i.e. office) and residential buildings and to give comprehensive information about the reference buildings and HVAC systems used in IEA SHC Task 56.

In Subtask C of IEA SHC Task 56 complete solar envelope systems based on active and passive components and integrated into the HVAC system are investigated on building level. Different approaches for investigating Solar Envelope Systems are required for residential and office buildings. This report has the goal to describe the different methods used for non-residential (i.e. office) and residential buildings and to give comprehensive information about the reference buildings and HVAC systems used in IEA SHC Task 56.

In Deliverable D C.4 two Demo buildings are presented. The first one is a multi-family house built in Innsbruck, Austria according to the Passive House standard. The second one is a library located in Varennes, Quebec, Canada designed as net zero energy building. Demo buildings are illustrated and monitoring results are reported.

Building Integrated Solar Envelope Systems for HVAC and Lighting includes a broad variety of technologies. Different “Solar Envelope” solutions for office and residential buildings are investigated and evaluated by means of building and system simulation. Detailed technical/economic analysis will be carried out in order to assess the impact of the integration of the solar envelope components for different buildings in different climates. Models for these technologies shall allow to develop and optimize control strategies for coupled control of indoor air quality, thermal and visual comfort (lighting) considering optimal energy performance.

ALMABuild is an open library based on MATLAB SIMULINK for the dynamic modelling of a building, To facilitate the creation of the model ALMABuild uses a series of Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) by means of which all the properties of each building element and each thermal zone can be defined. GUIs facilitate the use of ALMABuild also for users without skills in the use of SIMULINK: the system is able to create automatically the SIMULINK model of the building simply starting from the input data. The import of the envelope geometry from SketchUp is supported. Compatibility with the CARNOT library and native integration with MATLAB Toolboxes.

DALEC (Day- and Artificial Light with Energy Calculation) is an online concept evaluation tool for lighting designers, architects, building engineers and building owners. Although easy to use, the software accounts for the complex thermal and light processes in buildings and allows a simple evaluation of heating, cooling and electric lighting loads. Not only energy, but also user behavior is considered, and visual and thermal comfort is evaluated (glare, overheating frequency). This novel and innovative, holistic approach makes sustainable and energy efficient building design possible for new buildings as well as refurbishment. The simulation tool has been developed by Bartenbach, Zumtobel Lighting and the University of Innsbruck.

This set of EnergyPlus and Matlab models can be used as a reference for evaluating solar active systems using simulations. The model set contains the EnergyPlus implementations of the IEA SHC Task 56 typical reference office (see Deliverable DC1) and a Matlab/EnergyPlus implementation of the air-to-air heat pump and façade integrated PV model (see Deliverable DC2). This model set was developed by Samuel de Vries and Roel Loonen from Eindhoven University of Technology.

DYMOLA simulation environment was used to develop the numerical model of a typical office space using models from the Modelica library and Buildings library. Here infiltration, ventilation, shadings, internal gains and occupancy schedules are characterized as reported in Deliverable DC1 of IEA SHC Task 56.

PHPP is a Design Tool for Passive Houses and renovations with Passive House components. PHPP accurately predicts the energy consumption of a building on monthly basis and includes algorithms for HVAC such as heat pumps systems and RE (ST, PV). A new worksheet is developed to calculate the PV self consumption per month having as basis the PHPP. In addition an algorithm was developed to calculate the monthly electricity consumption of a heat pump having as input the annual electricity consumption from PHPP ‘HP’ sheet.

TRNSYS simulation software was used to develop the numerical model of a typical office space. Here infiltration, ventilation, shadings, internal gains and occupancy schedules are characterized as reported in Deliverable DC1 of IEA SHC Task 56.

CarnotUIBK for MATLAB Simulink is a tool for dynamic building energy simulation based on the MATLAB object oriented language and Simulink. It bases on the Toolbox CARNOT. A GUI for a comfortable handle of the input data and the results is available. Import of different kind of data formats is supported. Import functionality for gbXML (B.I.M.), Excel and PHPP are available. A Toolbox for Simulink is provided with the a range of physical calculation models, i.e. hygrothermal models and advanced air flow models. The use of existing CARNOT models is supported.

In the residential sector, solar thermal and PV systems are typically placed on building roofs with limited attempts to incorporate them into the building envelope thus creating aesthetic drawbacks and space availability problems. On the contrary, the use of facades is highly unexplored, and daylight control is delegated to individual management of blinds and curtains leading to high thermal loads during mid-seasons and summer.
 

SHC Task 56 focuses on simulation, laboratory tests and monitoring of multifunctional envelope systems that use and/or control solar energy, influencing thermal energy demand, thermal energy consumption and comfort of the building. The strategic objective of Task 56 is to coordinate the research and innovation effort taking place within the scientific community and the private sector towards broader utilization of envelope integrated technologies.

The achievements in Task 56 during 2019 are summarised in this issue. Topics are: SWOT analysis of solar envelope systems, the study of solar envelope solutions for office and residential buildings using building and system numerical simulations and one Industry workshop, organized in collaboration with “Smart Energy Green Cities” in Copenhagen, Denmark, in March 2019.

The achievements in Task 56 during 2017 are summarised in this issue. Task 56 focused on simulation, laboratory tests and monitoring of multifunctional envelope systems. Two industry workshops were arranged. The industry workshop during the Dublin meeting in March 2017 investigated the opportunities and hurdles of solar integrated multifunctional envelopes. During the second workshop in Eindhoven in September, six experts met to discuss their most innovative technologies.

SHC Task 56 focuses on the analysis, simulation, laboratory testing and onsite monitoring of active envelope solutions that are integrated with building HVAC and comfort systems faced with one of the following: Delivering renewable thermal or/and electric energy to the building’s systems providing heating, cooling and ventilation, or reducing a building’s heating and cooling demands while controlling daylight.

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Abstract - One of the promising use cases of building performance simulation (BPS) is its role as a virtual laboratory in research and development (R&D) projects that aim to bring innovative building components from initial idea towards market introduction. By facilitating what-if explorations and whole-building insights, BPS can create complementary value, alongside actual experiments. However, explorative R&D projects tend to be rather erratic and are more ill-defined than typical BPS tasks. This raises several issues concerning application, interpretation and communication of BPS-based performance predictions in explorative contexts. The aim of this paper is to highlight opportunities and potential pitfalls of the use of BPS in this application domain (...).

Abstract - An energy auditing tool (PHPP) was evaluated against a dynamic simulation tool (TRNSYS) and used for the assessment of energy conservation measures in a demo case study. The comprehensive comparison of useful heating and cooling demands and loads included three building types (single-, multi-family house, and office), three building energy levels (before renovation and after renovation with a heating demand of 45 and 25 kWh/(m²a)) and seven European climates. Dynamic simulation results proved PHPP (monthly energy balance) to be able to calculate heating demand and energy savings with good precision and cooling demand with acceptable precision compared to detailed numerical models (TRNSYS). The average deviation between the tools was 8% for heating and 15% for cooling (considering climates with a relevant cooling load only). The higher the thermal envelope quality was, i.e. in case of good energy standards and in cold climates, the better was the agreement. Furthermore, it was confirmed that PHPP slightly overestimates the heating and cooling loads by intention for system design. (...)

Abstract - During the last decades, a great number of innovative building envelope materials and façade components have been developed. The majority of these technologies promise significant improvements in energy efficiency and occupant's comfort, with products that are easily available in the market. However, it remains a challenge to assess the performance of such facades, leading to difficulties for efficient design, operation, and maintenance. As a consequence, the market adoption of adaptive facades is not realizing its full potential, resulting in missed opportunities for energy savings and improved occupant satisfaction. In this study, the current trends of adaptive facades are investigated, with particular emphasis on their performance assessment (...) Download open access paper

Abstract - Traditional façade characterisation metrics such as U-value and g-value are of limited value in the design process of buildings with adaptive façades. This issue is particularly important for adaptive façade components that have the capability of controlling thermal energy storage in the construction thermal mass. Building performance simulations can help to analyse the performance of buildings with adaptive façades, but such studies usually only provide information about the energy and comfort performance at room level. (...) This paper presents experiences and lessons learned from four European R&D projects that have introduced novel metrics to capture the dynamic performance of adaptive opaque façades. 

Abstract - Advanced glazing systems with special spectral characteristics or light redirecting behavior are commonly applied to improve building energy efficiency and indoor comfort conditions. The angle-dependent optical properties of such advanced windows can be markedly different from those of ordinary glass. To achieve accurate building performance predictions, it is necessary to represent the physical behavior of advanced window systems at a sufficiently high level of detail in building simulation programs [...]  Download open access paper

Abstract - In this paper the performance of a novel type of closed-loop forced convective dynamic insulation system is investigated. First results show that a ninefold higher U-value can be achieved in comparison with the insulating state of the system. Multiple case studies have been analysed to study the behaviour and performance of the system. We found that the dynamic insulation system can reduce the energy consumption and increase the indoor thermal comfort of a typical residential building, while using less auxiliary energy than comparable passive cooling systems, such as night ventilation. Applying dynamic insulation to a façade construction with a heavyweight interior partition and lightweight exterior partition resulted in the best performance [...]  Download open access publication

Abstract - In this paper, the energy performance of a solar thermal (ST) façade system is studied in relation to its connection to a district heating system. This concept allows for the direct use of ST heat in the building, while taking profit from the network for delivery/selling of excess heat and purchase of heat during periods of underproduction. The use of unglazed collectors for low-intrusive architectural interaction in façades is discussed. Studies are carried out on the heat production of the system and its capacity to cope with local demands. Economic studies are carried out in order to balance the investment and operational costs/profits of the system. Download open access publication

Abstract - This article presents an overview of possibilities and points of attention for modelling the performance of dynamic CFS in building performance simulation software. Following a detailed analysis of the unique requirements that are associated with modelling of CFS, a comparative study of the capabilities in different software implementations is presented. In addition, we present on overview of state-of-the-art approaches to obtain the necessary Bi-directional Scattering Distribution Functions (BSDF), involving experimental characterisation, databases, and component-level ray-tracing approaches. The second part of the paper provides a detailed discussion of a case study of a high reflective lamella system [...]

Abstract - The scope of this paper is to highlight the main barriers that are experienced in the development of façade-integrated solar water storage. This activity is a part of the SunRise project that aims to develop a new unitised curtain wall element for tertiary office buildings. The façade element integrates a complete solar thermal system consisting of a solar collector, hot water storage, a radiant panel, and all the required operation components. A mock-up of the solar façade is manufactured to identify practical constructional issues. The thermal behaviour of the tank is analysed through FEM simulations and laboratory tests. Download publication

Abstract - In the current context of moving towards more sustainable construction, advanced façade systems that integrate solar collecting devices represent a commitment with future trends that combine renewable technologies with building skins. This paper describes a real experience when combining a novel unglazed solar collector based on sandwich panel technology, a heat pump and a controller that manages the different operation modes. Installed in the Kubik by Tecnalia testing building in northern Spain, the system has been monitored for several months in 2016, under an energy efficiency scope. The study will present measured values regarding the yield of the collector, performance of the heat pump and general efficiencies. Download open access publication

Abstract - The paper presents results from three ongoing projects. BATISOL and BASSE investigate the development of solar thermal technology so as to fulfil the functional, constructional and formal requirements of building skins. Façade assemblies are turned into active skins by integrating unglazed solar collectors in the place of conventional renders and claddings. RETROKIT explores the usage of renewable energy gains within an alternative environmental control strategy, by direct supply of heated air into the ventilation system. Finally, a discussion is presented on architectural, constructional and thermal performance aspects of these solutions, based on both design assessments and experimental data. Download open access publication

Abstract - The main contribution of this review article is to bring together and analyse the existing information on building performance simulation of adaptive facades. In the first part, the unique requirements for successful modelling and simulation of adaptive facades are discussed. In the second part, the capabilities of five widely used BPS  tools are reviewed, in terms of their ability to model energy and occupant comfort performance of adaptive facades. Finally, it discusses various ongoing trends and research needs in this field.

Abstract  -  DALEC is a novel, combined lighting and thermal simulation web tool. This tool allows building designers to evaluate their individual façade concepts in terms of thermal and visual performance and ultimately their impact on overall building energy use. Although easy to use, the software accounts for the complex thermal and light processes in buildings, by way of sophisticated and time-saving pre-calculations. Based on climatic data a calculation of heating, cooling and electric lighting loads can be obtained within a simulation time shorter than one second. The model has been validated by comparison with experimental data and other state-of-the-art software and shows deviations less than 15%. Not only energy demand is considered, but also user behaviour (e.g. glare protection), as well as visual and thermal comfort. This innovative, holistic approach facilitates and accelerates the design of sustainable and energy-efficient building for new, as well as for refurbished buildings.

Abstract - The layout of an air based solar cooling system integrated into a façade module was designed and assessed. This solution utilizes a triple state absorption module within a Sydney type vacuum tube solar collector to thermally condition an airflow directed to the internal space reducing the thermal load covered by traditional technologies (...). The results show that a combination of active and passive cooling can greatly limit the use of cooling coil even though the performance varies significantly with climate and façade orientation. On the contrary, the performance in heating have been found quite poor for all configurations studied. Abstract

Abstract - Due to steadily increasing use of technologies for the reduction of the non-renewable energy needs in buildings (...)  deeper architectural integration is needed, also considering on cost and assembly process optimization to ensure wide market adoption. In this context, two main trends appear: Integration and hybridation of solar systems in building envelopes. Integrated solutions are created when modular and dimensionally variable glazed collectors are integrated in curtain wall structures or in external cladding systems. Hybrid solutions such as external thermal insulation systems and sandwich panels are generated where unglazed collectors are integrated as part of renders, claddings, etc. to obtain neutral aesthetical impact. Architectural, constructional and thermal results are discussed, not only based on design assessments, but also on manufacture, assembly and assessment results from experimental data.
 

The objective of our Task on Building Integrated Solar Envelope Systems for HVAC and Lighting was to answer how solar envelope systems can become common practice in building construction. The SHC team that tackled this challenge was a group of experts from eight countries representing seven companies, six universities, and four research institutes. How they went about it was to tackle the issue from different angles – simulation of multifunctional envelope systems, review of laboratory tests and norms, and market assessments. The following is what they concluded needs to be done and by whom to push this technology further into the building market.

The 12th EuroSun International Conference on Solar Energy for Buildings and Industry was a big success. On September 10th to 13th, more than 130 oral and 180 poster presentations were given to an audience of researchers, professionals, and experts from all over the world in Rapperswil, Switzerland.

Focus on the application of technical innovations in the field of integrated lighting solutions in practitioners’ workflows. Bring findings onto  the desktops of designers by integration into widely used software tools, standards and codes, and design guidelines.
 

Abstract - The model of the reference office building, reported in IEA SHC Task 56, is implemented by different experts in building simulations, with different tools (i.e. dynamics simulation tools such as EnergyPlus, TRNSYS, CarnotUIBK, ALMAbuild, DALEC, Modelica and quasi steady state calculation tool such as PHPP). The aim is to set up reference models for (virtually) testing different solar passive and solar active façade systems. Hence, identifying deviations between the resulting energy balance for heating and cooling of the used tools due to different levels of detail of their models is of great importance, while in the same time, trying to get rid of the user influence was experienced as a real challenge. It can be concluded that even considering a relatively simple case study, it is hard to reach a good agreement between different tools and an additional calibration phase is necessary. In particular, it was found that the resolution of the window model can lead to considerable differences (...)

This paper presents a comparative study among well-established simulation tools showing their capabilities evaluating complex fenestration systems in terms of thermal and daylight performance. Two powerful and flexible toolchain approaches based on EnergyPlus and TRNSYS including third-party software are analysed in detail and their application is shown on exemplarily test cases. By investing into comparative simulations, capabilities of both toolchains are highlighted, and pros and cons are discussed within this paper. Upon comparison with measured data, the ability of both toolchains to predict real case scenarios is shown. Satisfying alignment has been achieved in energy performance prediction (cooling loads, temperatures) as well as daylighting prediction (illuminance levels). Remaining uncertainties reflects the sensibility in used model definitions, used data as well as tool handling.

Abstract - A new compact and cost effective heating and ventilation concept for decentral renovation of small flats in multifamily houses was developed and investigated in the framework of the Austrian project “SaLüH!” through a dynamic building and HVAC simulation study based on results of laboratory measurements of functional models. The system consists of a façade integrated supply air/exhaust air heat pump equipped with a desuperheater allowing to increase the heating power and to add more freedom to control the system. The simulation results show that such a system is able to improve the thermal comfort of the flat (compared to the standard heating concept without desuperheater) with good indoor air quality and satisfying energy performance. The proposed system - because of its versatility and compactness - represents an ideal solution for decentral renovation of flats in multi-family houses, especially in case of limited space inside the flat and if central solutions are not possible for technical, economic or social reasons.

Abstract - The aim of this study is to assess the performance of prototype PV façade elements of various PV technologies, colors and textures. Within this context, a prototype PV façade demonstrator was constructed and monitored at SolarBEAT, Eindhoven. This prototype demonstrator consists of 9 façade PV panels of c-Si and CIGS technologies with flat and textured solar glasses and black, grey and red colors. The field-testing results indicate a limited performance drop of less than 20% for all colors and textures.

Abstract - To reach future Net-Zero Energy Buildings as requested by the “Energy Performance of Buildings Directive” the integration of systems for harvesting of renewable energy is decisive. Building integrated solar thermal (BIST) collectors can play an important role in this paradigm shift. In the R&D projects ArKol and TABSOLAR multidisciplinary teams develop different BIST systems for transparent and opaque facades. These solutions help trigger highly qualitative architectural integration of solar thermal collectors and are planned for future realization. This paper describes the basic layout of these systems and the current state of development.
 

Abstract - The intension of Living in Light is to create additional space behind a more transparent and flexible building envelope in a transformation of existing buildings. The purpose is to make a more demand driven concept for renewal and transformation of existing buildings to the benefit of the users, the owners and the environment. The transparent building envelope adds new qualities to the building. A part from more space it creates a “Summer Garden”, with daylight and better indoor environment, active facades (PV and thermal sun power) and better energy performance. The Living in Light Box tests the concept. www.livinginlight.info | Paper | Presentation

Abstract - As the interface between interior and exterior spaces, the façade plays a key role for the thermal and visual conditions in buildings. Advanced daylighting systems should fulfill various and in parts contradictory requirements: they must provide sufficient and adequately distributed natural lighting, avoid visual discomfort (glare) while allowing visual contact to the exterior, provide solar gains for heating in winter and protect from high radiation against overheating in summer. Integrating these functionalities often results in products which are more complex than conventional sunshading systems and thus are often not properly characterized and cannot be applied in standard design workflows. We present approaches for the characterization of advanced daylighting systems and introduce DALEC, a simplified tool for combined lighting and thermal simulations that can account for such systems. (...)

- Assessment of photometric properties
- Relation between photometric properties and lighting conditions in indoor spaces
- Energy performance and user acceptance studies

Abstract - A new approach of highly-efficient thermal refurbishments of multi-family buildings is presented that has a high potential to reduce costs and simplify the renovation processes significantly. This approach is based on prefabricated curtain wall elements that integrate components for the energy supply system such as heat pumps, PV panels and all the necessary pipework for supply and waste water lines. By using pre-fabricated curtain wall elements, scaffolding and the relocation of inhabitants can be avoided. Three different system concepts have been evaluated and compared to a reference retrofit in terms of primary energy and life cycle costs. It has been shown that the new concepts can reduce the primary energy consumption significantly while reducing the costs over the lifetime of the system. Finally, a functional mockup of such as pre-fabricated façade was constructed and successfully tested in the laboratory.

Abstract - Within the framework of the Austrian FFG project “SaLüH!” concepts with high energy efficient and cost-effective decentral small scale heat pumps for heating and DHW preparation for the renovation of small dwellings in multi-story buildings are developed and investigated. Very compact heat pumps are developed in order to enable the integration of these units into the window parapet or into the façade. The wall integration has a high potential in pre-fabrication and leads to an optimal solution for renovation of small apartments. The target is to create a complete renovation package with a decentralized (apartment size) exhaust-air heat pump (HP) for ventilation and heating installed in the kitchen and an air-to-water HP for DHW preparation installed in the bathroom. The solutions aim to be cost effective, involving components and technologies with high efficiency and minimum noise emissions. (...)

Abstract - As the interface between interior and exterior spaces, the façade plays a key role for the thermal and visual conditions in buildings. Advanced daylighting systems should fulfill various and in parts contradictory requirements: they must provide sufficient and adequately distributed natural lighting, avoid visual discomfort (glare) while allowing visual contact to the exterior, provide solar gains for heating in winter and protect from high radiation against overheating in summer. (...) We present approaches for the characterization of advanced daylighting systems and introduce DALEC, a simplified tool for combined lighting and thermal simulations that can account for such systems. A comparison between DALEC and TRNSYS proves that the simplified approach is adequate for integrated simulations in early design phases.

Abstract - A new building with 14 small flats is designed according to Passive House standard in Innsbruck, Austria. Heating and domestic hot water (DHW) supply are planned to be covered using direct electricity. Electric heaters are used for space heating, and electric boilers for DHW (one per flat). The whole south façade is covered with a Photovoltaic (PV) system of 27.3 kWp, aiming to cover as much as possible of the electricity needs. The idea was to keep the investments costs low, minimize the installation effort, eliminate the distribution losses, and increase the share of on-site renewable energy production using the available space in the façade [...]
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- Compact façade integrated MVHR and heat pump for decentral ventilation and heating
- Potential of onsite-PV to reduce non-renewable primary energy consumption
- Results of the project "SaLüH"

Abstract - Solar Envelope systems, which represent the technological response for meeting aesthetic requirements and solar renewable energy exploitation on building façades, are gaining a rising attention. However, they are still rare on the market. IEA SHC Task 56 focuses on the critical analysis, simulation, laboratory tests and onsite monitoring of market available and near market Solar Envelope systems. Within this framework, reference boundary conditions are required in order to assess the performance of Solar Envelope systems and compare different technologies through numerical simulations. The present paper reviews the process of defining reference boundary conditions for an office building, listing possible simplifications and required assumptions in order to calculate the impact at whole building level in terms of useful and final energy savings related to the installation of a façade integrated technology. The paper concludes with a comparison of simulation results between TRNSYS and DALEC, a simplified concept evaluation tool, which performs combined thermal and lighting analysis already at early design stages. 

Abstract - Sustainable and responsible use of resources is required in order to mitigate climate change. Micro-economic goals usually consider the capitalized investment costs and/or the purchased energy but disregard environmental impacts. However, on macro-economic scale, the aim must be the reduction of the (non-renewable) primary energy (PE) use and of CO2-emissions. There is need for an appropriate evaluation method for comparing and ranking different passive and active building technologies, e.g. according to their impact on the PE consumption. (...) This paper discusses - using a realized NZE multi-family building as an example - a PE evaluation method, that allows to include future development of the load (i.e. building stock) and electricity mix (share of REs) with seasonal variations and shows the impact on the ranking of different passive and active technologies.

Abstract - Heat pumps in combination with PV are discussed as one of the key technologies in a future sustainable energy system. A simulation study of a flat in a multi-familiy-house (MFH) with decentral compact heat pumps and with a photovoltaic (PV) field was performed in the CARNOT/Simulink simulation environment in order to evaluate the potential to reduce the purchased grid electricity. PV electricity is self-consumed covering electric power requests for heating, ventilation, appliances and Domestic Hot Water (DHW) preparation. Three different electric power profiles for DHW preparation and two PV fields (roof, roof and façade) were analysed.The results of the simulations show that just a small percentage (below 26%) of electricity demand can be covered from PV field energy. The installation of a PV field also on the façade of the flat does not reduce significantly the purchased electricity (-11% in best of cases), while the use of daily electric storage could be evaluated to decrease further the purchased electricity (maximum reduction of -27%). The use of annual primary energy factor instead of monthly values overestimates the reduction of primary energy demand in all cases compared to the case without photovoltaic system.

Abstract - Shading devices are effective in controlling glare and solar heat gains in buildings. However, this occurs at the expense of daylight and outside view. This paper evaluates the thermal and daylight performance of Lumiduct, a sun-controlling dynamic façade system that permits only diffuse radiation inside the building, while producing electricity. This imparts Lumiduct a unique characteristic of acting as a shading device while providing useful daylight and view to the outside. The first part of the paper briefly illustrates the working principle of Lumiduct and its functional characteristics and then, introduces the basic principles of the modelling and simulation strategy used to predict its performance. (...) The results show a significantly higher daylight utilization along with a reduction in glare and energy use for heating and cooling the building.

Abstract - This contribution will present a concept for (translucent) wall elements with switchable U- and g-values. The basic concept of the element consists of an insulation panel (preferably realized by a translucent and light-guiding foam grid or in the future by transparent vacuum glazing) which is arranged inside a glazed closed cavity so that thermally driven convection around the element can either be enabled or suppressed. Supression of convection is realized by a rollable second insulation inside the cavity which can reflect incident solar radiation: If the secondary insulation is fully retracted resulting in high U and g-value and daylight being guided inside the building. By successively rolling down the insulation, convection can be suppressed and the g-value can be varied from almost unchanged to almost zero. In the case of the secondary insulation being rolled fully down, the U-value of the element is also minimal. This state is favourable in a cold winter night or during hot daytime hours in summer. The high translucence, low-U-value case is favourable in conditions where solar gains and good insulation are favourable and the translucent high-U-value case is favourable for example in a summer night to cool the building (...).

Abstract - In this article it is presented an innovative façade system with a solar thermal system. The developed solar system can be classified as modular unglazed collector, designed for low temperature energy capture. It is compatible with a solar combined system that integrates a solar heat pump. The external appearance of the building remains untouched thanks to this innovative system. Experimental works at façade collector level are presented. The integration of the unglazed collector in a heat pump based combined solar system, its performance levels and economic figures are presented.

Abstract  - Im Rahmen des von 2014 bis 2017 laufenden Projektes „Vorgefertigte Fassadenelemente mit maximal integrierten HVAC-Komponenten und -systemen zur Bestandssanierung“ wurden neue Lösungsansätze für intelligente Bestandssanierung aufgezeigt bzw. entwickelt, wobei es unter anderem um die Synergieeffekte für die Modernisierung der Gebäudehülle und der Gebäudetechnik bei konsequenter Nutzung erneuerbarer Energieträger ging. Erklärtes Ziel dabei war die Erreichung eines hohen Vorfertigungsgrades in Verbindung mit Holz- Vorhangfassaden und damit kurze Sanierungszeiten mit geringsten Belastungen der Bewohner, reduzierte Abhängigkeiten von der Witterung im Sanierungsprozess sowie eine gesichert hohe Ausführungsqualität. Entsprechende Energieversorgungskonzepte stellen die auf die Fassade auftreffende Solarenergie effizient dem Gebäude zur Verfügung.

Abstract - The switching time and spectral transmission in fully clear and fully opaque states of polymer dispersed liquid crystals (PDLC), suspended particle device (SPD) and electrochromic (EC) switchable windows were evaluated to assess their suitability to control solar heat transmission though glazed façade and comfort to building occupants. The transmission measurement on a SPD film showed a very effective absorption modulation in the visible range but fast decrease in the near infrared region. The switching speed was demonstrated to be related strongly to wavelengths. A SPD film with a larger absorption and faster switching speed in the infrared region was shown to be preferable to control solar heat transfer through glazings and thermal comfort. The PDLC window did not modulate transmission but rather modulated scattering. In the opaque state, the PDLC window was highly scattering resulting in spectral transmission varying at short distances from the window while being constant in the far field ... [read full Abstract and Paper]

With adaptive building façade technologies, a building envelope can provide a comfortable indoor environment under varying external conditions with minimal additional heating or cooling. The control strategy applied to the adaptation of the façade is a key determining factor in the successful integration of these technologies into a building. The building envelope plays a key role in regulating light, heat and mass transfer from the outdoor environment to the indoor. Dynamic glazing can be used to adjust the amount of solar radiation entering a building. The control strategies that ultimately determine the success of these switchable technologies to affect a building's energy performance and occupant comfort are reviewed in this paper.

Abstract - Present trends on solar thermal systems for building integration define the need of integrated solar technologies for façades. The integration of solar systems in façades allows for the direct connection of solar systems to heated spaces, and automated air solar collectors based on the trombe-mitchell provide a suitable technology for its adoption in multi-rise buildings with decentralized-individual HVAC systems in Central-European and Mediterranean heating dominated climates. This paper reviews the main principles of such building envelope components, and the construction and design considerations of two air-based solar thermal collectors. Full scale preliminary prototypes of these systems were tested at the KUBIK by Tecnalia test facility in an Oceanic Climate (Koppen Geiger Cfb zone). The observed thermal performance is analyzed, and the process of a full scale installation in a real building envelope retrofitting process of a building in Spain is reviewed. Access full paper on Research Gate

Abstract - Present trends on solar thermal systems for building integration define the need of integrated solar technologies for façades. Although other possibilities exist for solar thermal systems in new buildings, solutions for a suitable integration of solar thermal systems into building retrofitting actuations are needed. This paper presents a solar thermal collector system which hybridizes already existing ventilated façade cladding systems into a low temperature solar thermal collector. Numerical and experimental data is presented. Access full paper on Research Gate

Abstract - The lack of solutions for the architectural integration of solar collectors and the complexity of their assembly process are important barriers for the widespread adoption of this technology. An innovative approach is proposed in which solar collectors are not merely integrated into conventional building envelopes, but instead these envelopes are hybridized and activated to house solar thermal systems. (...) The paper presents results from three ongoing projects. BATISOL and BASSE investigate the development of solar thermal technology so as to fulfil the functional, constructional and formal requirements of building skins. (...). RETROKIT explores the usage of renewable energy gains within an alternative environmental control strategy, by direct supply of heated air into the ventilation system. Finally, a discussion is presented on architectural, constructional and thermal performance aspects of these solutions, based on both design assessments and experimental data. Access full paper on Research Gate

Abstract - At the moment hardly prefabricated façade modules with integrated building services are used for the thermal renovation of residential buildings. Within the frame of the national research project “Prefabricated façade elements with maximum integrated HVAC components and systems for the renovation of existing buildings” the potential for the intelligent renovation of existing buildings should be shown and new solutions should be developed. A highest possible level of prefabrication should minimize the required renovation time and avoid vacancy. In particular, the aim is also to find solutions which allow a direct interaction of the HVAC components in the building façade with the room behind [...]
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Abstract - In the on-going Nordic Built Living in Light project, coordinated by Kuben Management, a new concept of urban renewal will be tested at Gl. Jernbanevej in Valby in Copenhagen. Here a 4 storey old housing block from around year 1900 will have new roof top apartments together with an approx. 2 m extension of the housing block towards the courtyard. The extension mainly consists of an innovative window structure from the Danish window company Velfac, and it increases the daylight quality of the apartments considerably without compromising comfort and energy use. At the same time building integrated PV solutions secures an overall CO2 neutral design for the renovation project.

Abstract - The objective of the EC-funded project iNSPiRe is to reduce the problem of high-energy consumption of existing buildings by producing systemic renovation packages that can be applied to residential and tertiary buildings. The renovation packages aim to reduce the 2 primary energy consumption of a building to lower than 50 kWh/(m a) for ventilation, heating/cooling, domestic hot water and lighting. These renovation packages need to be suitable for various climates in Europe while ensuring optimum comfort for the building users. One major goal of iNSPiRe is the development of multi-functional renovation kits that make use of innovative envelope technologies, energy generation systems (including RES integration) and energy distribution systems [...]

Abstract - The layout of an air based solar cooling system integrated into a façade module was designed and assessed. This solution utilizes a triple state absorption module within a Sydney type vacuum tube solar collector to thermally condition an airflow directed to the internal space reducing the thermal load covered by traditional technologies (...). The results show that a combination of active and passive cooling can greatly limit the use of cooling coil even though the performance varies significantly with climate and façade orientation. On the contrary, the performance in heating have been found quite poor for all configurations studied. Abstract

Abstract - In the EC-funded FP7-project ‘Development of Systemic Packages for Deep Energy Renovation of Residential and Tertiary Buildings including Envelope and Systems’ (iNSPiRe; URL: http://www.inspirefp7.eu/) amongst others envelope retrofitting packages have been developed. The goal was to improve the façade of these buildings by providing more accessible and affordable energy saving solutions. Paper | Presentation

Abstract - Due to steadily increasing use of technologies for the reduction of the non-renewable energy needs in buildings (...)  deeper architectural integration is needed, also considering on cost and assembly process optimization to ensure wide market adoption. In this context, two main trends appear: Integration and hybridation of solar systems in building envelopes. Integrated solutions are created when modular and dimensionally variable glazed collectors are integrated in curtain wall structures or in external cladding systems. Hybrid solutions such as external thermal insulation systems and sandwich panels are generated where unglazed collectors are integrated as part of renders, claddings, etc. to obtain neutral aesthetical impact. Architectural, constructional and thermal results are discussed, not only based on design assessments, but also on manufacture, assembly and assessment results from experimental data.
 

Abstract - Nowadays, the application of BIPV systems is growing very fast and among this type of technology, application of BIPV facade systems is becoming more common. A main question in this field is how we can ensure the intended performance of such systems considering different involved parameters over the system's life-time. To do so, we need to be able to predict normal behavior of BIPV systems in urban environments, considering the effect of shading from neighboring obstructions. This research investigates a combination of real-time shading simulation using Rhino and Grasshopper with BIPV performance monitoring to detect abnormal system operation. The application of this approach is demonstrated for a 12 m 2 vertical BIPV system in the SolarBEAT test facility in Eindhoven, the Netherlands. We have conducted an experiment to better understand the impact of different partial shading scenarios on the I-V curve of a vertical CIGS BIPV panel. The results show that the simulation-assisted approach, coupled with data visualization and a decision tree can be a powerful tool for guaranteeing robust BIPV system output. Download article

Abstract - Cette étude porte sur la modélisation et l’étude expérimentale de capteurs solaires développés et fabriqués par INEF4 dans le cadre du projet BATISOL. Ces capteurs sont modulaires, opaques, basse température, Low-Cost, et totalement intégrés en façade derrière une solution de bardage métallique. Dans une première partie est présenté le modèle de simulation thermique du capteur. Il s’agit d’un modèle pseudo 3D par éléments finis développé sous COMSOL. Un calcul sur une coupe 2D du capteur est répété n fois selon la direction du fluide afin de déterminer les variables d’état tout au long du capteur. Dans une deuxième partie est présenté le dispositif expérimental, les prototypes réalisés ainsi que les résultats des tests expérimentaux. La comparaison entre ces deux approches permet de valider l’utilisation d’un modèle pseudo 3D pour la simulation thermique des capteurs BATISOL.