Integrative photovoltaic awnings in the natural fusion home: Solar decathlon 2009

Photovoltaic (PV) awnings provide an integrative system solution in both residential and commercial applications, as the energy produced by the PV can offset a measurable fraction of a building's energy demands and provide passive solar thermal benefits. This analysis assesses the benefits of an integrated photovoltaic operable shading system for the building market as a System Integrative Photovoltaic (SIPV) design. Here, we present the 2009 Penn State Solar Decathlon entry, Natural Fusion, as the prototype. We will demonstrate how the SIPV awning complements passive solar design techniques by blocking the high altitude summer sun, while allowing maximum light penetration during the winter. By incorporating photovoltaic modules on each of the louvers, the system generates electricity to support the tracking motors and a significant fraction of the building's internal plug loads. SIPV performance was modeled using TRNSYS, a modular FORTRAN-based energy modeling software, to provide a an estimate of annual power gains for the PV awning in the Natural Fusion home set in the Pennsylvania region. Heating/cooling responses were also modeled throughout the course of a year, indicating that the awning provides an innovative passive solar design element in the Natural Fusion home.