Innovative BIPV rooftops: development, realization, and monitoring of 2 BIPV field tests in the Netherlands

Building Integrated PV (BIPV) is seen as strategy to realize the EU target of Nearly Zero Energy Buildings (NZEB’s), while at the same time creating an aesthetically acceptable built environment. This in contrast with Building Added PV (BAPV) of which the result is often seen as aesthetically unwelcome additions to new and existing building. BIPV might have some negative aspects considering lifespan and PV output besides the aesthetical positive effect. In this research project two field tests are realized to investigate the negative aspects of different BIPV solutions, focusing on the effect of back-string cooling of PV modules on PV electricity output, relative humidity and lifespan. These aspects are seen as possible bottlenecks for large-scale acceptance of BIPV in society and the design, realization and monitoring of these field tests can contribute to an increased implementation of BIPV through improved BIPV solutions.