Different photovoltaic systems and the use of natural lighting for energy saving in a building

The objective of this research is that of environmental comfort and energy savings by integrating the energy from photovoltaic systems and the use of natural lighting. The research was conducted experimentally using a building model tested in the laboratory using an artificial simulator of the sky and numerically using Radiance to determine the distribution of illuminance and daylight factor inside the building. The numerical results were validated by comparison with experimental ones in order to come to the determination of correlation that may be of practical use to designers. Then the architectural PV integration was studied. The photovoltaic modules offer solutions to high aesthetic value and can be integrated into every part of the buildings construction. Meet the requirements of its quality of construction materials (mechanical strength, water resistance, thermal and acoustic insulation, etc..). The solar panel also becomes an architectural element that offers many new possibilities of expression. For these reasons three different PV systems were studied and analysed for the building model as solar shading and photovoltaic glazing. The generated electricity is purchased according to the Italian program called “Conto Energia”. Economical analysis and the amount of the avoided CO2 were elaborated for the PV systems. The combination of all these technological devices (daylighting system and photovoltaic systems,) in building structures, including non-residential, is certainly essential for achieving results of energy saving.