SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE, BUILDING AND DESIGN

BACHELOR OF QUANTITY SURVEYING (HONOURS)

MARCH 2016 INTAKE

BUILDING SERVICES 1 [BLD 60403]

ASSIGNMENT

BUILDING INTEGRATION OF SOLAR ENERGY

GROUP MEMBERS:

NAME STUDENT ID

PANG KAI YUN 0319802

SAM WEI YIN 0320364

TRACE GEW YEE 0320269

YEO KAI WEN 0319844

AUDREY TING 0320247

CHOW KAH YIEN 0320300

LIM ZI SHAN 0320372

CHONG HUI XIN 0319363

LECTURER: MS. LIM TZE SHWAN

SUBMISSION DATE : 28 JUNE 2016

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CONTENT

No. Content Page No.

1. Introduction 2

2. Solar Energy 3

3. Installation 17

4. Application 25

5. Maintenance 33

6. Advantages and Disadvantages 37

7. Case study: Mont-Cenis Academy 39

8. Possible Problems of the System 48

9. Recommendations for Future Improvement 50

10. Learning Outcome 51

11. References 52

12. Bibliography 54

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INTRODUCTION

Solar energy is a type of renewable source of energy that is sustainable, clean, no

emission, reliable and inexhaustible, unlike the fossil fuels which are finite. Solar energy is a

non-polluting source of energy. It does not emit any greenhouse gases effect when it

producing the electricity. Solar energy is provided by the sun which the energy is in the form

of solar radiation. It makes the possibility production of the solar energy. The solar energy

technologies today are broadly distinguished into active and passive. In active solar energy,

it can convert the energy from the sun into usable form such as hot water and electricity

system with the use of mechanical system whereas in passive solar energy, it can convert

the solar energy to heat energy without the use of mechanical system. The active solar

energy include using the photovoltaic panels generate the electricity directly from the

sunlight solar energy or solar thermal convert the sunlight into useful output such as water

heating, cooling, ventilation and so on. One of the advantages of the solar energy is that we

can use both simple and complex to capture the solar energy and use it for heating. There

are two strategies to capture the sunlight from the sun which are active and passive solar

technology. Active solar technology is used to convert the solar energy to heat and electricity

power with the use of active mechanical system. Photovoltaic and solar thermal are the

examples of active solar energy. Passive solar technology is used to convert the solar

energy to heat energy without the use of active mechanical system. Passive solar

technology it includes those ventilation, improve air circulation, orienting spaces and others.

Mainly practice on using windows, trees, building placement or other techniques to capture

and deflect the sun for uses.

In this report, our topic is building integration with solar energy. We had selected one

case study which is Mont-Cenis Academy. This building is integrated with photovoltaic

technology. Photovoltaic is a device which takes light from the sun and turns into electricity.

The purpose of installing photovoltaic panel is due to lighting densities of solar modules used

between 53 and 93 %. Also, it supplies the necessary shade for the hall. The windows of the

buildings intensify the supply of daylight to the building.

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SOLAR ENERGY

History

Solar energy is the oldest energy source. It was adored by many ancient civilizations

as a powerful god. The first known was applied for drying the preserved food. There was a

Swiss scientist, Horace- Benedict de Saussure had created the first solar collector in 1767.

The solar collector is an insulated box which covered three layers of glass to absorb the heat

energy. It had become known as the first solar oven where the oven reaches the

temperature of 110 degree celsius.

In the year of 1839, A French physicist Alexandre Edmond Becquerel had discovered

the photovoltaic effect by using two electrodes which placed in the electrolyte and it figured

out that the electricity increased after exposed to the light.

The solar heating has been used for a very long time ago, it started from ancient

Greek. They used solar energy to heat their homes since 4th century BC. In 19th century,

the people began to use solar water heaters which consists of a painted with black colour of

metal tank that installed on the roof top. However, this system had to wait for a long time to

heat the water as the sun went down, the water would cool down. In the year of 1909,

William J. Bailey had developed a new system which was quite similar to the solar systems

used today. The tank and the solar collector separated to two different units. One installed

on the roof and another installed inside the house which can be keep the hot water longer

than previous system.

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PHOTOVOLTAIC

Photovoltaic is one of the most promising renewable energy technologies.

Photovoltaic panels is use to convert the sunlight from the sun to electricity that replace the

use of the electricity supplied by the utility grid without concern for the energy supply for the

environment harm. Photovoltaic panels mostly installed on the rooftops because the space

of the exposure is directly to the sun. Besides that, there are other possible installations for

the photovoltaic panels such as ground mount, pole mount, carport, a top a porch or shaded

area. This system is eligible for the federal tax credits and state incentives. In building

integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) involves combining solar photovoltaics with the building

construction. It can save the cost of materials and electricity and reduce pollution also it

added to the architectural appearance to the building of itself. The value of BIPV system is

the building design and energy conservation. During construction, the builders can reduce

the cost of photovoltaics system also the design issues for separating mounted system. Most

of the construction of the buildings is built during a retrofit. The designers of this system will

considered the arrangement and the possibilities of the solar technology compare to the

space of the construction uses.

Types of Photovoltaic System

Photovoltaic systems are generally classified based on the end-use application of the

technology. There are three main types of photovoltaic system existing today for solar power

generation at home, which are grid-tie, off-grid and hybrid systems. Each system have their

advantages and disadvantages. Which type of systems is more suitable for your household

is depends on what goals you have for the solar energy to do for your home.

Grid-Tie System

Grid-Tie System is a solar system that is connected to the utility power grid. In this

way, the power supply drawn from the utility grid will be reduced by the amount of power

generated by the PV system. However, when there is little or no output from the PV system

due to cloudy weather or at night, the electricity drawn from the utility grid will be

correspondingly increased. This system only works when the grid is up. If the grid power

goes out, the grid-tie inverter needs to be shut down immediately.

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An example of how a grid-tie system works

Advantages:

1. Lowest initial cost, because there is no need for expensive batteries and generator

2. Save more money with net metering

3. Constantly power your house unless the national grid is down

4. More efficiently because its DC does not go into a battery that causes energy loss.

5. Low maintenance cost

Disadvantages:

1. No power when the grid is down.

2. Access to the utility power grid is required.

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Off-Grid System

An off-grid system or stand-alone system is designed to operate independent of the

utility power grid. This system required batteries for energy storage to provide electricity

when there is little or no output from the PV system. During the day the sun shines, it will not

only supplies power to your home, but will charge the batteries as well. When it is rainy days

or the sun isn’t shining, you use the power stored in the batteries.

An example of how an off-grid system works

Advantages

1. Self-sufficiency on a clean, renewable energy source

2. Ideal for remote areas where national grids cannot reach

3. No power bills

Disadvantages

1. Higher initial cost because batteries and generator are expensive

2. Required maintenance for batteries and generator

3. No grid backup

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Hybrid System

Hybrid system is a combination of grid-tied and off-grid systems. These systems can

either be described as off-grid solar with utility backup power or grid-tied solar with extra

battery storage. This system functions like a grid tied system when the grid is up, but it also

charges a set of batteries. If the grid goes down, the inverter disconnects from the grid, but

it continues to supply power to the house from the batteries and inverter, basically behaving

like an off-grid system when the grid is down.

An example of how a hybrid system works

Advantages:

1. Provides backup power when the utility grid goes down

2. Less expensive than off-grid solar systems

3. Provides some of the advantages of both systems.

Disadvantages:

1. Still has a battery system that is expensive to buy and maintain.

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Solar Panel

A solar panel is a collection of solar cells. Solar cells are small devices which can

convert sunlight into electricity. One cell will only provide a very small amount of power.

Several cells connected together and fixed in a frame to form a module (solar panel), which

can produce a larger, useful amount of power. The final product that you see on rooftops are

a series of connected panels called an array.

Types of solar panels

The main difference in solar panels is the purity or the arrangement of the silicon.

The more perfect the arrangement of molecules of silicon, the better the solar panel at

converting sunlight into electricity. There are five main types of solar cells and the best type

for you will vary depending upon the need of your project. Of Course, the more efficient the

panels are the more expensive, but this should not be your main reason for choosing one

type over another.

Monocrystalline Photovoltaic Solar Panel

Monocrystalline is the highest quality of solar cell. These cells are cut from a single,

continuous solid cylinder of crystal. The cylinder is then sliced into thin wafers to create solar

cells. These cells are the most efficient when convert the sun's energy to electricity.

Therefore, they are the most expensive solar panels currently available, but they require less

space than other cells because they can produce more energy.

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Solar panel and solar cell of Monocrystalline

Polycrystalline Photovoltaic Solar Panel

Polycrystalline solar panel is now the most popular choice in residential installs. They

are made up of multiple silicon cells that are melted together and then recrystallized. This

process is simpler and less wasteful than with monocrystalline panels. These cells are

slightly less efficient, but also cheaper than monocrystalline cells.

Solar panel and solar cell of Polycrystalline

Amorphous Silicon Photovoltaic Solar Panel

Amorphous silicon solar panel is the least expensive and least efficient solar panels.

These panels can be manufactured by placing a thin film of amorphous (non crystalline)

silicon onto a wide choice of surfaces. These panels can be thin and flexible, which is why

they are normally known as “Thin Film” solar panels.

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Solar panel and solar cell of Amorphous silicon

Hybrid Silicon Photovoltaic Solar Panel

Hybrid silicon solar panel is the combination of both monocrystalline solar cells and

amorphous solar cells to generate maximum efficiency. These panels have higher efficiency

ratings than other solar panel and it is a lot more expensive than mono or poly-crystalline

panels. They are better suited to countries that have sunnier climes.

Solar panel of Hybrid Silicon

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Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV)

Rather than an individual type of solar cell technology, building integrated

photovoltaics are solar photovoltaics that are integrated into the building in the form of solar

shingles, solar tiles, slates and others. This type of system can be integrated into roofs,

facades, walls and even windows. However, BIPV is way too expensive to install at regular

houses.

Solar shingles

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SOLAR THERMAL

Solar thermal , also known as solar heating system is used convert the sunlight from

the sun to heat energy to provide the heat to the homes, it can also used in solar thermal

collector to cook the food and provide hot water. This system can be found on top of the

buildings. The panels on the roof of the buildings are the collectors of sunlight, then the

panels heating up the liquid in the tubes which is located on the panel and then it

transported into a container or tank which is ready to use. The installation and the

appearance are much similar to photovoltaic panels. The solar convertor does not act as the

same functions as photovoltaic that convert the sunlight to electricity, but it transfer the

energy to water. In Mediterranean countries, there are around 30% of homes that installed

with solar water heater, it highlights the basic household of the hot water needs. Building

integrated solar thermal system (BIST) is the application of the solar equipment of buildings

that perform the function and collect the solar energy. It is complicated by the complexity for

both solar energy and function of the buildings. There are several methods to collect the

solar energy by using glazed, unglazed, active and others. Different methods systems

capture solar thermal energy. Solar thermal energy is majority used in space heating, drying,

hot water heating and other processes. There are some solar energy systems that are

created by adding the elements to structure and shell of the buildings to give an aesthetic

view.

Types of Solar Thermal

There are two types of solar thermal system which are active solar heating system

and passive solar heating system. Active solar water heating systems have circulating

pumps and control whereas passive solar water heating system don’t have circulating

pumps and control.

Active solar water heating system

In active solar water heating system, there are two types of active solar water heating

system which are direct circulation system and indirect circulation system. In direct

circulation system, it circulates the household water through the collector which is solar

panel by using the pumps. The system works very well in different climates like summer and

winter seasons.

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An example of how active solar water heating system works

Passive solar water heating system

In passive solar water heating system, the pumps circulate the heat- transfer fluid

through the collector. It heats the water and flow it into homes. This passive solar water

heating system quite happens in winter seasons.

An example of how passive solar water heating system works

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Solar Thermal Collector

Solar thermal collector is the heart of a solar thermal system. It absorbs solar

radiation, converts it into heat, and transfers useful heat to the solar system. The main

component of solar thermal collector is the absorber plate. A coated metal plate will absorbs

the sun’s radiation and causes its temperature to rise above the atmosphere. The plate then

releases the energy through radiation and convection to its surroundings. Thus, heat is

transferred to the heat-transfer fluid which in turn feeds the hot water system.

Types of solar thermal collector

Solar thermal collector's job is very simple. It sits in the sun than absorb and transfer

the heat. But to do this efficiently, solar thermal collectors need to absorb a high level of

solar radiation, while minimizing losses from the reflection and heat loss to the surrounding

environment. There are two main types of solar thermal collector, which are flat plate solar

collector and evacuated tube solar collector. Each type has a different role, depends on

where the project is and what the heating needs are.

Flat Plate Solar Collector

Flat plate solar collector has been used since the early 1900’s. It consists an

absorber panel welded to copper pipe where the heat transfer to the water circulates through.

This is encased in an insulated box to help retain the collected heat, and covered by a sheet

of glass or glazing, which also provides an insulating air space.

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Cross Section of a Flat Plate Solar Collector

Evacuated Tube Solar Collector

Evacuated Tube Solar Collector is a much newer system. It is introduced to the

market in the 1970's. The evacuated tube consists of two concentric glass tubes fused at the

top and bottom. The space between the two tubes is evacuated to form a vacuum. This

vacuum serves as an insulation barrier, minimizing heat loss and increasing efficiency. The

inner glass tube is coated with an absorptive coating to absorb the solar radiation. The heat

is transferred to the water circulating inside the copper pipe. The water is heated and then

flow to the hot water storage tank.

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Cross Section of a Evacuated Tube Solar Collector

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INSTALLATIONS

The installation of solar panel is very important because it effect the total sunlight

received. Basically, solar panel is installed on rooftops because rooftops gets the most direct

sun exposure and you want to make sure your solar panel is maximally effective year around.

Actually, there are many ways to install solar panel on your roof depends on your individual

requirements and the type of roof you have.

BEFORE INSTALLATION

There are many benefits to installing solar panels at your home, everything from

lowering your energy bills to reducing your carbon footprint. However, choosing solar isn’t a

decision you should make lightly. There are a number of considerations to be made before

one installs these panels at their home.

1. Amount of sun exposure through the year

Same type of system will produce different result in different home due to the amount of sun

exposure it gets throughout the year. Therefore we should determine the total solar energy

received during the daytime for month, and year.

2. Shading

Shade from trees, nearby buildings, and other obstructions can block the sun, reduce your

solar panel's effectiveness. If the solar panels are all on the same string, and one of the

panels is shaded, all the panels will have the electricity production limited to the one shaded

panel. If you know shading is going to be an issue, you might wish to put panels on different

strings to ensure that you maximize the electricity produced from panels.

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3. Climate & weather conditions

High ambient temperatures can decrease the output of solar systems, and clouds and

rainfall patterns can affect system output and maintenance requirements. High levels of air

pollution can require regular cleaning to limit efficiency losses.

4. Position of the solar panel

Solar panel produces most power when they are pointed directly at the sun. They should be

installed so that they can receive maximum sunlight. In the southern hemisphere, your

panels should ideally face to the north (towards the equator) and opposite in the northern

hemisphere.

5. Type of Solar Panels

A solar system can save you money as the technology has become affordable and price of

grid electricity keeps rising. It is important to know which solar technology to use as different

types are suitable for different conditions. Thin-film panels are better for shaded sites and in

general are a little cheaper, however they also require more space. Polycrystalline and

mono-crystalline panels are more efficient and need less space but are not suited to sites

with shade. Take some time to compare different types of solar panels and brands to

determine the perfect fit for your house.

6. Number of Solar Panels

When installing a solar panel, you have to figure out how many panels is needed to be able

to meet your electricity needs. Your household consumption of electricity and how much you

want to supplement from solar power will determine the number of solar panels you need.

The systems are modular and you can add more panels in the future.

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7. Roof Space

How much of your electricity you want to generate using a home solar system will greatly

determine how much space you'll require. If you have a large home, you will likely require

more energy, but you may also have an adequately-sized roof. Solar panels can also be on

a solar pole mount anywhere on your property if your roof does not offer sufficient square

footage.

8. Roof Condition

While installing a solar panel in conjunction with a new roof is the best option for success,

you can also install solar panels on your existing roof as long as it meets some basic

qualifications. If your roof doesn't pass muster, you may need to repair it or install a new roof.

If you own an older property, you may need roof repairs or even an entire roof replacement

before solar panels can be installed safely. If the property has any construction flaws or

other structural issues, installing solar panels may pose a risk and end up being more

expensive to maintain or repair than you anticipated. Take the condition of your property and

your roof into consideration so you can make any major repairs before installation begins.

The expected lifespan of your current roofing system also needs to be determined. It

generally takes about 20 years for people to see a return on investment for their solar panel

systems. If your roofing system won’t survive that long, it’s best to forgo your project until

new construction can occur.

TYPES OF SOLAR PANEL INSTALLATION

Solar panel installation can divide into two main types, which are pitched roof mount

and flat roof mount. Pitched roof mounts include flush mount, angle mount and fin mount.

While flat roof mount include attached mount, ballasted mount and hybrid mount. Which

types of installation are suited for your house will based on the size, affordability, utility, and

convenience.

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Pitched Roof Mount

Pitched roof mounting is installing solar panels on non-flat or angled roofs. This is the

most common type of solar panel installation seen in residential solar systems. This type of

roof installation is more difficult to install and maintain, due to the roof orientation and angle

are not compatible with the optimum solar array tilt angle.

Flush Mount

Flush mounts are the cheapest and most simple solar panel mounting solution

available. It is installed by placing a metal end bracket on each side of the solar panel,

elevating it several inches from the surface, so that air can flow under the unit and keep it

cool. This type of installation typically used with small solar arrays on rooftops because it

cannot support large solar panels, but it can install at the slope of any roof.

Angle Mount

Angle mount is typically done on a roof with a lower pitch where the owners do not

mind having the panels stick up and away from the roof. This type of installation also has

higher efficiency for the PV system.

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Fin Mount

Fin mount is for homes with shallow roof pitches where the roofs slope to the east

and to the west. It is the most obtrusive of the mounting styles, but is sometimes the only

option available. These systems will be fairly efficient, but will need more roof area than the

others.

Flat Roof Mount

Flat roof mount is more common on commercial installations and is easier to install. It

offers flexibility for orienting and tilting the solar panels for ideal solar collection. The three

main flat roof mounting techniques are attached, ballasted and a hybrid option that uses both

ballast and structural attachments.

Attached Mount

This type of installation relies on penetrations in the roof surface and connections to

the framing. There are several options available for fastening the racking system to the

building.

.

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Ballasted Mount

Ballasts mount rely solely on the weight of the array, racking system and additional

material, like concrete paver, to hold the array to the roof. This type of installation does not

require penetration and can withstand winds up to 90 mph.

Hybrid Mount

Hybrid mount is a combination of ballasted and structural attachments. This type of

installation takes advantage of both attached and ballasted features. A hybrid racking

system requires a minimum number of penetrations and some level of ballasting.

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INSTALLATION PROCESS

Solar panel

1. Measure and mark the size of the solar panel follow by remove and mounting

brackets are attached to the rafters.

2. The tiles are placing back after grinding of the undersides to enable a flush fit.

Replaced damage tiles with new.

3. Rails are bolted extend slightly beyond the panel to the brackets to support the

panels

4. Clips and bolt are used to attached the panels to the rails to enable the panels to be

removed quickly and easy for roof maintenance when necessary.

5. Electrical cable behind each panel is connected to the adjoining panel to form a

“string”. The cable is fed under the tile and into the roof void where it is connected to

the inverter.

6. The roof installation is completed. Notice that there must be a margin between the

edge of the panels and the edge of the roof

7. The cables are connected into two DC isolators which are connected to the inverter.

The AC output from the inverter is fed into a AC isolator from where it is taken down

to the consumer unit and generation meter.

8. It is not necessary to access the inverter after installations except for maintenance

and data from the inverter can be transmitted to a computer or other dedicated

device.

Solar thermal

1. Measure the distance between mounting bracket. The distance between should be

125-155cm. Remove appropriate roof tiles to fit roof bracket console.

2. Fasten roof bracket console to rafters with provided self-tapping screws

3. Replace the roof tile and cut tile to ensure correct fit if necessary

4. Insert the hammer-head bolt into the roof bracket and hand tighten

5. Attach lower mounting rails and follow by upper mounting rail

6. The upper and lower mounting rails must be mounted perfectly straight and parallel

to one another

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7. Set addition mounting point as described in No. 1-4 if additional collectors are to be

fitted.

8. Push the clamping piece extension halfway into the inner groove of the mounting rail

and tighten

9. Insert the following mounting rails and attach them using the clamping piece

extension

10. Attach the mounting rail using the roof bracket or clamping piece extension

11. Hang the first collector in the lower mounting rail and adjust. The distance between

collector and the end of mounting rails is equal 45mm

12. Place the clamping piece on the mounting rail and hand tighten for now

13. Attach the second collector

14. Rotate the clamping piece by 90 degree and screw it tight using a long socket

wrench

15. With clashing mounting rails, insert and position the mounting part in the upper

mounting rail

16. Attach additional clamping piece

17. Attach the mounting part on the upper left and right end of the collector field and

screw the collectors into place.

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APPLICATION

Nowadays architecture and solar panel can be combined to create a new form of

construction, giving them a whole new look. They are not only replacing the conventional

building envelope materials, but they also generate power. These modules, mounted on the

building over the existing structure, can increase the appeal of the building and its resale

value. In fact, many parts of the building can be easily substituted with photovoltaics.

ROOF

The most common way to install solar panel on the building is to mount the solar

panel in a frame on the roof. Basically, they are mounted above and parallel to the roof

surface and installed facing north-south orientation to maximise the amount of solar energy

received. The solar panel can also replace the roofing material or the roof itself to become

part of the roof's structure as well as providing electricity. It can be either an integrated,

single-piece solar rooftop made with laminated glass, or solar roof shingles which can be

mounted on the roof instead of regular roof shingles.

Solar panel Single-piece solar rooftop

Solar roof shingles

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FACADES

Solar panel can replace traditional glass windows with semi-transparent thin-film or

crystalline solar panels integrated into the exterior sides of buildings. Although these

surfaces have less access to the direct sunlight than rooftop systems, they offer a larger

available area.

GENyO Building, Spanish

FEMSA (Coca-cola) headquarters, Monterrey, Mexico

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SKYLIGHT

Skylight is also known as roof windows. It provides a multifunctional solution where it

does not only generate energy, but natural illumination is also provided to achieve solar

control by filtering effect to avoid infrared and UV irradiation into the interior. It can also

enhance thermal comfort and avoid interior aging.

Viracopos International Airport, São Paulo, Brazil

Norvatis Headquarters, East Hanover, New Jersey

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CURTAIN WALL

Curtain wall is considered as an outer covering of a building and it is a non-structural

cladding system for the external walls of a building. It offers architects a multitude of

possibilities for the integration of solar panels into buildings in an efficient and ecological

manner.

Azurmendi restaurant, Bizkaia, Spain

Guadalhorce Valley Rural Development Group (GDR) Headquarters, Spain

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CANOPY

Canopy is basically a roof like covering that provides shade or shelter. Solar panel

can have a higher performance when integrated into canopy because it is usually free from

overshadowing and are easy to ventilate.

Bart Station, San Francisco

Arcadia University, Pennsylvania, USA

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AWNINGS

Awnings can keep the unwanted direct rays of the sun out of your eyes while

absorbing them to create electricity. The angle of awnings could be adjusted to best capture

and block the rays of the sun depending on the season.

BALUSTRADE

Balustrades are always the forgotten area of solar energy. With such a large amount

of them in existence we can now turn them into an attractive source of energy. Integrated

solar panel into balustrade not only enhanced the facade design whilst ensuring safety of the

occupants and energy generation. They are also perfect in allowing good visibility whilst

protecting privacy.

Großhadern Clinic, Munich, Germany

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FUNCTION

Solar panels that integrate into the building will provide at least one additional

functionality to the building envelop besides electricity generation, such as:

1. Sun protection

The photovoltaic cells provide sun protection, delivering shading and glare control acting as

opaque elements. It can also provide the desired degree of transparency according to the

design of the building.

2. Architectural design

Solar panels that are available in a wide range of designs make it possible to use them as

architectural design elements. Moreover, the innovative solar panels add to the image of the

building and contribute to the impressive atmosphere within.

3. Thermal Control

When the solar panel is exposed to radiation, particularly the case with direct radiation to the

solar panel, the temperature of a solar panel can increase significantly. The heat from the

solar panel then radiates into the environment can be harnessed to provide heating or can

be utilized to enhance passive ventilation systems.

4. Thermal insulation

The multilayer glass structures of the solar panel can be used to provide thermal insulation

depends on their thickness. Furthermore, most of the solar panels can also be integrated

into insulation double or triple glazing structures or used as alternative front cladding for

curtain or roof insulation elements.

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5. Weather protection

The glass structure of solar panel naturally provides weather protection. With the correct

choice of cover glazing layers or films in combination with the building integration mounting

system, solar panel can provide rain-proofing, wind-proofing, wind load resistance and

ageing resistance as well as offering residual structural integrity to the building.

6. Sound insulation

Solar panel can reflect or attenuate sound depending on their construction. For this reason,

they can also be used as sound protection elements. Integrated solar panels at facades or

roof already possess sound insulating properties because of their multi-layer structure. The

solar panel design also can be adapted to meet specific local requirements regarding sound

insulation. The sound reduction index can be adjusted by increasing the thickness of the

glazing and by using asynchronous cover layers and specific intermediate layers.

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MAINTENANCE

PHOTOVOLTAIC

Photovoltaic consists of solar array, solar charge controller, battery, inverter and

lighting protection. Each of these components requires maintenance. Minimal maintenance

is required for solar PV. There is some general knowledge of PV management. First, make

sure there are no trees or thing that could block the panel from sunlight. Next, ensure the

panel is installed 15° from horizontal. This could let the rainfall to clean some dust that stick

at the surface of the array. There was a schedule to manage solar PV. The panel should

check and record the electric output once a month. Besides, visually inspect should be done

once a year. Finally, clean the array once a year to remove the soiling accumulated on the

side of the array.

Solar Panel

Solar array is the essential component for any solar usage system that converts

sunlight to direct-current. It is one of the components that need to be maintained the most.

Solar can be clean using water once a month and once a year. It can clean up the dust that

cannot be washed off by rainfall such as bird drop. It could ensure no soiling form at the

edges of each array. Soiling could cause the formation of plant on the panel. This could

affect the PV system. Next, a visually inspect of the array once a year to ensure no physical

damage on each array.

Battery

A battery was a component use to store electric charge convert from solar energy.

There are two types of battery commonly used at solar system which is sealed gel battery

and deep cycle flooded-lead acid battery. Maintenance of battery cans longer the life of

battery. Safety precaution should be considered when checking the battery to prevent

hazards. For an example, a safety goggles and protective gloves should be worn when

doing maintenance work of the battery. The battery should be clean to ensure the surface of

the battery is clean to provide a good visual. Some useless clothes could be used to clean

the battery. Next, check the electrolyte level of the battery should be done once a month.

Volume of acid inside battery should be checked during this process. If the volume of the

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acid was less than the requirement, it should add back. The voltage of the battery should be

checked frequently to ensure the battery is always at the good stage.

Battery

Invertor

Inverter was the component convert direct- current to alternating-current for our daily

used. Maintenance of this inverter includes minimize the accumulation of dust on the outer

surface by using a dry cloth to clean it. Besides, checking whether the inverter can function

in a good condition or not. If the functionality of this inverter was low a replacement should

be done. We should also check the connection of wire. If the connection of the wire in the

inverter was loose already we should retighten it. Next, we should check the temperature of

the inverter. If the temperature was at abnormal stage, a replacement of this inverter should

be done.

Inverter

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SOLAR THERMAL

Solar collector

Solar collector was panel to collect sunlight which installs on the rooftop. Since this

collector was located at outer space that no covering so it was easier to trap dirt. Solar

collector was a panel to collect the heat energy from sunlight. Therefore, when installing this

panel ensure there are no blocking object near this panel. Maintenance of solar thermal was

low and every solar thermal has warranty 5 to 10 years. Maintenance of solar collector had

to be done frequently to ensure its function. Maintenance of this solar collector including

keeping it clean, the glazing was not cracked or yellow. Cracking of the solar collector might

affect the solar thermal system. Besides, visually check the collector during the day normally

mid-morning, noon, and mid-afternoon once a year. Shading can affect the presentation of

the thermal system. Growth of the plant on it will also affect the functionality of solar thermal

system. When doing maintenance work, these entire things had to be checked. Next, make

sure the fasteners connecting the collector to roof are in good condition. We have to ensure

the structure of the supporting of the solar collector was in good condition to prevent it from

collapse.

Piping, duct and insulator.

We have to if there were any leaking or damage to the pipe.

Wire

Next, we also need to check the connection of the wire. If the connection of the wire

had loosened, retighten it.

Pressure Valve

We also need to check the pressure valve to ensure the opening of the opening can

function properly.

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Pumper

We also need to ensure the pumper is in good condition. If the pumper does not

function well, there might cause no hot water supply.

Heat transfer fluids

Moreover, checking the heat transfer fluids also included in the checklist of

maintenance. We have to make sure the antifreeze solution was replaced frequently.

Mineral content

We also need to check the mineral content of the water supply. If the mineral content

of water is too high we have to add a descaling or mild acid solution to the water every few

years.

Storage tank

Finally, we need to check the storage tank. Ensure the tank had no crack, leak, rust

or corrosion. These are the checklist for solar thermal.

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ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES

ADVANTAGES

1. Renewable and Environment friendly

Solar energy is a renewable energy that is generated from natural processes and are

continuously replenished. This type of energy cannot be exhausted and is constantly

renewed. It can be used to heat and cool our building without any impact on the global

warming.

2. Cost Savings

Putting solar panels on our roof is likely to save our money by reduce dependence on the

size of the solar system and our electricity or heat usage. The technology of solar panel is

continuing advances, which are increasing the efficiency and lowering the cost of production.

Therefore, making it even more cost effective.

3. Easy to install

The creation of solar energy requires little maintenance. Once the solar panels have been

installed and are working at maximum efficiency there is only a small amount of

maintenance required each year to ensure they are in working order. It can be installed on

almost any size or shape of the roof without the stringent installation requirements of a

traditional solar energy system.

4. Low Maintenance

Nowadays, the solar energy systems do not require a lot of maintenance or either repair

work. It can be used a long period of time as the rain will wash off any accumulated dust or

particles. Most of the solar panels are mounted on the roof so they don’t involve any moving

parts which makes it impossible to really damage them. It can last for about 25 years.

5. Silent

This solar panel produces silent energy by converting the sunlight into usable electricity. So

there is no sound pollution effect to the surrounding area which made it more pleasant to

people who live around you.

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DISADVANTAGES

1. Availability of Sunlight

Solar energy cannot be produced during night time, it is only capable of producing power

during the daytime where there is sunlight.

2. Site suitability

A good location can generate more solar energy from the sun. If the house is under shade or

covered by trees and landscapes which are surrounded by huge buildings, it may not

suitable to install solar panels.

3. Initial Cost

The starting cost of purchasing and installing solar panels is expensive. Although installing

solar panels will deliver a return on investment like reduced energy bills, however the

process takes many years to complete.

4. Installation Area

Solar panel installation may not require a huge space for home users as it can install on

rooftops. For companies or business, it requires a huge space in order to provide sufficient

electricity on a constant basis.

5. Inefficiency

Solar panels only have a 40% efficiency rate sunlight is absorbed by the solar panels. The

other 60% of the sunlight gets wasted and is not harnessed.

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CASE STUDY : MONT-CENIS ACADEMY

INTRODUCTION

Location: Herne, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Owner: EMC, Ministry of Interiors of North Rhine-Westphalia, City of Herne

Architect: Jourda, Paris; Hegger Hegger und Schleif, Kassel

Client: EMC Mont-Cenis with Gilles Perraudin and HHS

Area: 7,100 m2 usable interior building 11,700 m2; 13,000 m2 greenhouse

Schedule: Competition in 1992, construction 1997- 1999

Construction Cost: 51,130,000 € (1999 value)

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Mont-Cenis Academy is located at the heart of the Herne region of Sodingen on the

site of the Mont Cenis pit dismantled in 1978, in the course of the Internationale

Bauausstellung Emscherpark (IBA 1989-1999) an unusual complex of buildings developed.

This project was planned as an urban neighbourhood shopping centre, the building serves

as both residential and retail space, complemented by a public marketplace in front of the

complex.

First and foremost, this academy has a 176m long, 72m wide and 15m tall gigantic

glass shell which is borne by timber framing and embraces the individual structures with their

various functions. The academy aside, there is also a library, the district hall and a civic hall.

Furthermore, with its waters and tropical-nursery-like palm trees, the weather-proof green

interior of the shell with its Mediterranean microclimate can be experienced as an outdoor

area, as it were.

As this academy has a large microclimatic glass envelope (72m x 180m x 15m) with

parted buildings inside the envelope, it have the concept of natural ventilation that was set

up and a program for the control of the motor driven windows in the facades and in the roof

was developed. In addition, a three-story perimeter development and a roof garden with a

children’s playground was built on top of a supermarket. Moreover, behind its colourful

facade are 40 flats that are suitable for the elderly and seven penthouse flats. Other than

that, heating is supplied by a cogeneration unit that uses methane gas from the former Mont

Cenis coal mine and supplies other buildings in area as well. Hence, it is part of the Mont

Cenis energy park, which links the area’s industrial heritage with the technologies of the

future.

Location of Mont Cenis Academy

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Site Plan

Plan View

Elevation View

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HISTORY

At the former coal mine Mont-Cenis in Sodingen, a quarter of Herne, the academy

Mont-Cenis in combination with a quarter centre was built as a part of the International

Building Exhibition Emscherpark (architects: Jourda Architects, Paris, Hegger-Hegger

Schleif, Kassel). The building was inaugurated in August 1999. Central part of the

arrangement is a glass microclimatic envelope; in which the buildings of the academy and

the quarter centre are placed. The glass hall causes a shift of the climate inside to higher

temperatures compared to the climate outside during the cold seasons. The world’s largest

building integrated photovoltaic power plant with one megawatt peak output is integrated in

the roof of the glass hall on 10.000 m². The PV panels are arranged in clouds and serve as a

sun protection during the summer.

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ARCHITECTURAL CONCEPT

This education centre represents an architectural milestone in terms of protection of

the environment and low energy consumption. The construction of a greenhouse over

13000m² provides a setting for a natural microclimate. The centre’s different programmatic

elements are located within this glass envelope. The scheme engages in various

environmental preservation and enhancement systems which are soil decontamination,

exploitation of released mine gases, rain water collection and recycling, passive use of solar

energy, active exploitation of solar energy, and use of natural and recyclable building

materials.

In the case of facade or roof systems the photovoltaic system is added to the building

after it was built. Facade integrated photovoltaic systems could consist of various

transparent module types, like crystalline and micro-perforated amorphous transparent

modules. In such case a part of natural light is transmitted into the building through the

modules. Solar cells are available in different colours. Roof-integrated photovoltaic systems

are integrated into the roof; the roof is concealed with transparent photovoltaic modules, or

they are added to the roof later. Such systems are added to a flat roof or on a sloping roof

usually only if the building is small. It is possible to use tiles, which integrate solar cells.

PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM

The photovoltaic system is integrated to the façade and roof of this building. The roof

with 10.000 m² solar panels does not only serve as a sunshade but also as a solar power

plant and at 750,000 kWh p.a. generates more than double the building’s own consumption.

Besides, the individual roof and facade elements can be variably opened to avoid

overheating. The types of solar panel used in this project are polycrystalline and

monocrystalline silicon. The size of the panel is 3.2 m2 and the weight is about 130 kg. It has

efficiency approximately from 12.8% to 16%.

Installation

PV modules and glass panes of the overhead glazing rest on aluminium profiles and

are held in place with aluminium pressure plates. The vertical PV-and-glass facade is carried

out as a structural glazing facade. The glass panes and PV modules are glued onto

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aluminium profiles. All aluminium profiles are mounted on the load-bearing wooden

substructure and were designed especially for this project by Wicona Bausysteme GmbH,

Ulm.

The interconnecting plugs and the required cabling are integrated in the aluminium

profiles that hold the PV modules and glass panes into place. They are invisible and

protected against weather conditions and ultraviolet light. This new mounting detail was

possible due to the specially developed PV plug. The plug is not thicker than the 4mm glass

pane of the PV modules and therefore fits well in the rebate. The plug helps to cut down the

installation time and costs.

How Solar Photovoltaic Work in Mont-Cenis Academy

During summer:

1. Doors open for natural ventilation

2. Hot air rises and escapes through open roof lights drawing fresh air in to lower level

of building.

3. Photovoltaic cells produce energy

4. Photovoltaic cells (solar shades)

5. Fresh air is drawn in from shaded areas outside of glass house

6. Vegetation and water features shade and evaporatively cool Glass house

7. Fresh air drawn in through underground air duct

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During winter:

1. Wind deflected from Glass house (prevents heat loss from inner buildings)

2. Heat reclaimed from exhausted air

3. Fresh air drawn in – preheated by glass house

4. Glass house heated by sun and by heat loss from buildings

5. Glass house protects microclimate from noise

6. Fresh air drawn in through underground air duct

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Passive Solar Energy Use

Glass envelope

Creates a climatic shift in summer and winter

Keeps out the wind and rain and creates a garden-like interior with a mild micro-

climate

No need absolute weatherproofed against wind and rain

Sophisticated ventilation and heating systems

Reduces the energy consumption

Ventilation of the glass envelope is controlled automatically from a central position

Meteorological station and sensor supply climate data

Prevents overheating in summer, the roof and façade elements can opened

variably

Hot days, doors in lower façade can be opened

Shadows of the trees and the cooling effect of waterfall and fountains are used

Air is naturally cooled or heated during very hot or cold periods (consistent below-

grade temperature)

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Daylighting concept

Special design of the PV roof light shelves were incorporated into certain facades of

the buildings inside the glass envelope to reflect daylight deeper into their rooms

Hologram films integrated into the roof micro-climate envelope redirect the sunlight

down into the library and the entrance hall

In library the hologram films act as a heliostat, which intensifies the light level

In the entrance hall they break up the light spectrum and create a rainbow effect

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POSSIBLE PROBLEMS TO THE SYSTEM

1. Roof penetrations

If the section of solar racking is poorly connected, water will leak into the house. When the

waterproof barrier between the house and outdoor is penetrated, water penetration can

cause rotting, molding, damage to the longevity of the house and destroy the underlying

wood and structure.

2. Wind loads

When solar panels are poorly attached to the roof, these solar panels can cause major

impairment in heavy winds. Anchors can be pulled out of the building if there are improperly

mounted and will create a small entry for moisture to penetrate which will lead to mold

growth and rotting problems.

3. Snow loads

Solar panels are very light. However, these light solar panels can hold snow in extreme

circumstances. During a storm with serious storm, extreme snow can gather and add loads

to the houses. If the solar installation is poorly planned, the loading could weaken the

supporting structure of the house and cause a roof collapse.

4. Electrical hazards

The solar panels produce DC current. In the solar panels, a device called an inverter is used

to change the DC current from the solar installation into AC current to be used in the house.

The electricity must be integrated with the electrical system in the house before the

electricity leaves the inverter. Improperly integrated currents can cause electrical fire and

electrocution dangers. Even if everything appears to be in working order, hazards could also

exist.

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5. Solar cells are not long lasting and system must be replaced

after 25 years

Solar panels are built to last and will do so for much longer than 25 years warranty might

suggest. An industry’s 25 years warranty means that the company will continue producing 80%

of their original production in 25 years. Solar panels also require maintenance and upgrades

and performance will reduce each year.

6. Retrofit and long term fault tolerance.

Solar panels are difficult to retrofit and replace faulty modules throughout their life cycle.

During the installation, if a solar panel breakdown it has to be substituted with module of

similar electrical characteristics. The solar panel is improving all the times and are

impossible to use a new solar panel in an old installation. Due to this reason, solar panel

companies have to keep an inventory of cells and modules for 25 years as a supply for old

systems.

7. Risk to firemen during a fire

During a fire, the first thing a fireman does is cut the power to enable them to spray water

and use axes to cut a hole in the roof to let the smoke out. However, when there are solar

panels on your roof, cutting the power does not eliminate the hazardous voltages present at

the string ends because the solar panel cannot easily be switched off and will continue to

operate even when damaged. Firemen preparing to cut a hole could be electrocuted.

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RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FUTURE IMPROVEMENT

1. Reduce the cost of solar panels

The most obvious obstacle to the widespread adoption of solar panels has been its cost. The

initial cost of installing and maintaining solar panels is too high. If the costs are lower than

before, soon the homeowners will be wondering why they are paying so much for electricity

bill when they could get it from the sun for a fraction of the cost and start installing solar

panels in their house. Besides, solar companies can simplify the buying and installation

process so the customers only have to set up a free installation to get started.

2. New advances in Technology

More efficient semiconductors need to be discovered to increase the efficiency of energy

conversion will reduce the size of the array and less space is required to produce the same

amount of energy. Low toxicity chemicals and materials can be used in manufacturing solar

panels. New materials such as perovskites which is cheaper and more efficient at energy

conversion can be used to manufacture solar panels. New transmission technology is

needed to bring the clean energy to the market. Clear solar panels can be designed and

incorporated into windows, making installation easier and increase the aesthetics of the

technology.

3. Shading

By shading a façade system panel provide a passive way to limit excessive solar gains.

Good opportunities of the combination of system modules into shading devices, gives both

reduced cooling loads and utilization of solar energy which are a noticeable expression of

the conservation of energy.

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LEARNING OUTCOME

Building services are the systems which installed in the buildings to make people feel

comfortable, functional and safe. Building services are what makes a building comes alive. It

include solar energy, ventilation, drainage, telecommunication, storm water system, drainage

system, sewage disposal, cold water supply system and hot water supply system.

With this assignment, our lecturer had given us the opportunity to do a report on

building integrated with solar energy. Based on our research, we found out that there are two

system in solar energy which are active solar energy and passive solar technology. Active

solar technology employs the mechanical system by converting the sunlight to electricity. For

passive solar technology, it is a method that harness in its direct form without using any

mechanical devices system. Solar panels capture the sunlight and generate the electricity to

the buildings.

Throughout this assignment, we had managed to learn more about this particular

topic which is solar energy. Based on our research, we learnt the types of solar energy, the

application and installation of the solar energy. Each of the solar energy system such as

photovoltaics and solar thermal has its own specifications, functions and professions.

Besides that, we are able to define the advantages and disadvantages of the solar energy

system. We know that the solar energy is a reusable resource it does not create any

pollution, sound, no emission. It can help us to save money and solve the energy

predicament in the long-term plan.

Thus, we had chosen Mont Cenis Academy as the building for our case study. We

had learnt about the system that works in the building throughout this assignment. This

building had the good example for our topic regarding integrated with solar energy.

In this assignment, all of us are fully participating in this group assignment. Every

member had completely did well in their roles. We had realized that teamwork is vital when

a group assignment or task is given. Lastly, we would like to appreciate our lecturer, Ms. Lim

Tze Shwan that lead us and help us on this assignment.

52

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