Photovoltaics integration in the Solar Decathlon pavilion : Assessing the implication of transparent BIPV with DSC technology on the indoor comfort and energy performance

Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) are photovoltaic devices that are meant to replace conventional building components normally used in the building envelope. Different BIPV options are nowadays available on the market. Despite the lower nominal efficiency, 3rd generation cells, such as the Dye-sensitized Solar Cells (DSCs) are showing great potential in terms of architectural integration because of their light weight, higher sensibility in non-oriented position, availability in different colors and transparency. The main objective of the project is to assess the implication of DSC application on the thermal and visual indoor environment and on the energy performance of the Solar Decathlon pavilion designed by the Swiss team.