IETE Technical Review

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A Survey on Development and Recent Trends of

Renewable Energy Generation from BIPV Systems

Debayan Sarkar, Anand Kumar & Pradip Kumar Sadhu

To cite this article: Debayan Sarkar, Anand Kumar & Pradip Kumar Sadhu (2019): A Survey on
Development and Recent Trends of Renewable Energy Generation from BIPV Systems, IETE
Technical Review, DOI: 10.1080/02564602.2019.1598294

To link to this article: https://doi.org/10.1080/02564602.2019.1598294

Published online: 04 Apr 2019.

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IETE TECHNICAL REVIEW
https://doi.org/10.1080/02564602.2019.1598294

A Survey on Development and Recent Trends of Renewable Energy Generation

from BIPV Systems
Debayan Sarkar , Anand Kumar and Pradip Kumar Sadhu

Department of Electrical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad 826 004, Jharkhand, India

ABSTRACT KEYWORDS
The electricity demand of the world is growing at a rapid pace. On the other hand, pollution levels Building integrated
due to conventional power generating techniques are drastically increasing and resulting in harmful photovoltaic (BIPV); BIPV
environmental issues and impacts. As an alternative to this, renewable or clean energy generation products; Clean energy;
from solar photovoltaic’s (PV) in large scale grid connected systems is being increasingly encouraged On-grid system; PV module;
Renewable; Solar
at the present time. One of the emerging trends in solar PV module power generation is building inte- photovoltaic’s (PV);
grated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems. It meets the local load demands of the building or residential Stand-alone
systems and can be used as a stand-alone or on-grid connected system. This paper briefs about the
development and recent trends related to renewable energy generation from BIPV systems and its
maximum power generation techniques. It also describes both the current-voltage (I-V) and power-
voltage (P-V) characteristics of various BIPV products at dissimilar values of solar irradiation. With
BIPV, the building or residential components like the roof, an outer wall, window glass, etc., are
replaced by PV array module and hence a dual purpose is served with a reduction in the overall
cost.

1. INTRODUCTION cost of installation [12,13]. BIPV installation systems can

BIPV shall be defined as a photovoltaic generating com-
ponent which forms an integral and essential part of a
permanent building structure or residential system with-
out which a non-BIPV building material or component
would be required to replace it [1–3]. The presence of
huge surface area in residential and commercial buildings
is constantly encouraging architects and photovoltaic sys-
tem designers to relocate the cost spent on labor and con-
ventional construction materials onto appropriate BIPV
substitutes [4,5]. This eliminates the transmission and
distribution losses as the electrical energy produced by
the BIPV system is utilized by the building itself [6]. The
performance of energy generation by a BIPV component
is deemed to be secondary to the role of being a build-
ing material or structural component. BIPV occupies a
space in the designing of a building or residential sys-
tem such that, if removed from that space, its absence will
be distinctive and noticeable [7–10]. Traditional build-
ing elements like facades, roof tiles, windows etc. can
be replaced by transparent BIPV modules thereby per-
forming the same functions as well as generating elec-
trical power [11]. Incorporation of BIPV system enjoys
some advantages like it shortens the energy payback time
(EPBT), its appearance is pleasant in terms of aesthetics
and architectural point of view, it can be used as a major
distributed generation source and finally, it reduces the
© 2019 IETE
be divided into two broad classifications according to the
placement of modules as shown in Figure 1. They are
facade integrated systems and roof-integrated systems.
Facade integrated systems are further subdivided into
curtain wall products, spandrel panels, and glazings. Cur-
tain wall products are facade integrated BIPV panels that
balance shading occurrence and daylighting. Spandrel
panels are facade integrated BIPV system that helps in
acoustic shielding. Glazings are semi-transparent facade
integrated modules that allow daylight inside the build-
ings [14]. Roof-integrated systems are further subdivided
into tiles, shingles, standing seam products and skylights.
Tiles are roof integrated BIPV modules similar in appear-
ance like roof tiles. Shingles are continuous roof inte-
grated opaque BIPV modules. Standing seam products
are long roof integrated opaque BIPV modules. Skylights
are semi-transparent roof integrated BIPV installations
[15–17].
In the initial stage of designing BIPV systems, it is essen-
tial and desirable to examine the accessibility and concen-
tration of solar irradiance on the incident surfaces of the
building portion for proper positioning or placement of
the BIPV modules or BIPV module array. This examina-
tion includes proper analysis due to variable irradiation,
2 D. SARKAR ET AL.: A SURVEY ON DEVELOPMENT AND RECENT TRENDS OF RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION FROM BIPV SYSTEMS
Figure 1: Different types of BIPV module/array installation sys-
tems
effects of self-shading phenomenon and PV product
movements [18–20]. The dc power output from BIPV
modules greatly depends on environmental conditions of
weather or climate as well as geographical conditions and
latitudes. BIPV module performance can be said as the
function of various parameters like solar angle (SA), solar
irradiation (Irr ), and PV module temperature (T) [21,22].
Presently, PV cells that are thin-film (bendable) and crys-
talline silicon (strong) are the two major technologies
in wide application related to photovoltaic systems at
recent times [23]. The most important parameter for a
PV or a BIPV module is nominal operating cell temper-
ature (NOCT) [24]. NOCT refers to the conditions as
solar irradiation (Irr ) = 800 W/m2 , speed of wind = 1
m/s (with temperature of air = 20°C) and cell temper-
ature (T) = 45°C [25]. A BIPV system is not only the
BIPV module but also the necessary components which
are required with it for generating electrical energy. The
components of an entire BIPV system consists of:
(1) The basic BIPV or PV array modules that can be
installed in windows, roof-tops, facades, etc.
(2) A system which stores power in the form of battery
back-up in case of standalone BIPV system or the
utility grid-connected systems.
(3) A controller for controlling the charging and dis-
charging of batteries in case of off-grid BIPV system.
(4) DC to DC converters for MPPT & voltage boost and
DC to AC converters for making the output power
compatible with the grid.
(5) Diesel generator (DG) sets acting as back-up power
supplies for off-grid BIPV system.
(6) Proper hardware for mounting and supporting the
BIPV modules along with wiring, circuit breakers,
isolators, and all necessary safety equipment.
This paper briefly describes the necessity of a BIPV sys-
tem and its recent technological trends & development
for clean renewable energy generation from buildings or
residential systems. It also describes the current-voltage
(I-V) and power-voltage (P-V) characteristics of vari-
ous BIPV products for different values of solar irradia-
tion. The entire research article is structured as follows.
Section 2 explains the development and recent trends
related to BIPV systems. Existing industrial practices
and policies of the BIPV system are given in Section
3. Single-diode and double-diode model of BIPV mod-
ule are presented in Section 4. Current-voltage (I-V)
and power-voltage (P-V) characteristics of various BIPV
products are presented in Section 5. Section 6 gives a
brief description of MPPT techniques of BIPV systems.
Finally, Section 7 gives the conclusion of the paper.
2. DEVELOPMENT AND RECENT TRENDS OF
BIPV SYSTEMS
Significant growth in the research and development of
BIPV systems is observed from the last few decades. Dif-
ferent researchers have appreciably contributed to the
improvement and advancement of BIPV systems and the
process is still ongoing. Some of the significant contri-
butions related to the development and recent trends of
BIPV systems is presented here.
Liu et al. [11], presents some better BIPV system power
configurations. It proposes a cost-effective & efficient
BIPV module array from the outlook of conversion of
energy and its techniques of control. The power config-
urations consist of many PV Module incorporated with
building materials (PV DC-BM) and a centrally con-
nected inverter as shown in Figure 2. Individual PV DC-
BM consists of a dc to dc converter incorporated with PV
module array [11]. The parallel connected PV DC-BM is
fed to the commonly connected DC bus and the central
inverter is coupled to the utility grid.
Drif et al. [26], develops a method for a grid-connected
BIPV system to estimate energy loss that results from
shading effect in solar PV panels. In this method, data
monitored in shaded conditions serve as an indicator of
GC-BIPV systems performance [26]. Although, the data
monitored should be on a clear sky day so as to illustrate
the proper shading conditions.
Sung et al. [27], presents an experimental study with
four different types of solar panels namely single sided
colored polysilicon glass module; amorphous thin-film
silicon module; double sided glass modules; and micro-
crystalline stack type membranous silicon module. All
these four solar panel types are placed at four dissimi-
lar sites of a building. The survey after installation of the
solar panels infer that the performance ratio (PR) of the
BIPV system at the facade is 56.43%, at the wall of the
 D. SARKAR ET AL.: A SURVEY ON DEVELOPMENT AND RECENT TRENDS OF RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION FROM BIPV SYSTEMS 3

Figure 3: BIPV system proposed by Zou et al. [28]

Figure 2: Design of expanded grid-connected PV DC-BM based
BIPV plant proposed by Liu et al. [11]

building is 65.49%, at the window facade is 73.62% and

finally at the inclined roof is 80.60% [27]. The factors or
parameters that are helpful for designing and optimizing
BIPV modules during installation for efficient PV power
generation are azimuth angle, the direction of PV panel
and shading effects.

Zou et al. [28], presents the operational performance of

data monitored in ten days of an on-grid BIPV array
module as shown in Figure 3. A Data Acquisition (DAQ)
system is utilized to monitor one of the BIPV subsystems.
The parameters that are measured consists of AC & DC
current, voltage, and power, module temperature, output
energy, reference-yield (RY), array-yield (AY), final-yield
(FY), performance-ratio (PR), etc [28]. The BIPV subsys-
tem generates about 5079.6 kWh in ten days. The average
value of the output AC power per day is 508.0 kWh.
Moreover, the intensity of solar irradiance is directly
proportional to the inverter AC power generated.

Sechilariu et al. [29], proposes a BIPV system as shown

in Figure 4 for feeding the load demands of the building
where it is installed and is equipped with a DC distribu-
tion network. Thus, the DC network eliminates numer-
ous energy conversions and increases the efficiency and
decreases the overall cost. This BIPV system not only
supplies power to the building but also has a smart
supervision ability to exchange information and data for
controlling & monitoring. The hierarchical supervision
system is divided into four segments i.e. interface of man-
machine, prediction calculation, management of cost,
Figure 4: Design diagram of DC-BIPV system presented by Sechi-
lariu et al. [7]
and operating process [29]. Hence, this DC BIPV can be
integrated with the smart grid resulting in the approach
of superior energy management with more flexible and
scalable regulation & control mechanisms.
Klironomos et al. [30], proposes a method to estimate
the potential of BIPV modules in industrial buildings for
4 D. SARKAR ET AL.: A SURVEY ON DEVELOPMENT AND RECENT TRENDS OF RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION FROM BIPV SYSTEMS

electrical power generation. A sample consisting of 30

industrial buildings was selected for estimating statisti-
cal data from three categories of building roof tilt angles
of 0°,15°&20° respectively [30]. Moreover, the advantages
of the integration of PV modules in industrial buildings
was also investigated with the reduction in the emission
calculation of greenhouse gases.

Aelenei & Pereira [31], proposes some work on increas-

ing the efficiency of the PV system by reducing its tem-
perature. The BIPV module temperature is reduced by
decreasing the temperature of the air within the PV mod-
ule cavity. Numerical thermal analysis was presented and
the results indicate that PCM or isolated brick reduces the
inside temperature of the air cavity making the solar cells
more efficient and stable. It also infers that the thermal
efficiency of the ventilated BIPV/T-PCM is lower than Figure 5: Schematic layout of the FPV module presented by
that of the ventilated BIPV/T system but after certain Sharma et al. [23]. (a) View of the experimental setup in three-
hours of time, it becomes almost the same [31]. Thus, dimension. (b) View of the experimental setup in two-dimension.
making PCM or isolated brick a good option. (c) Hardware system of the FPV module experimental setup

Sharma et al. [23], describes a novel approach for track-

ing MPP power from curved and flexible thin-film solar
PV module arrays as given in Figure 5, and concludes
that multiple peak pattern is exhibited in its power-
voltage characteristics. The proposed curve shape which
is used for optimizing the power yield can be a replica
of many real applications like curved roofs, BIPV, tents
etc. Based on empirical models from the extensive exper-
iments with the curved thin film modules, a “scanning
window technique” (SWT) is proposed [23]. This max-
imizes the electrical energy yield and relates various PV
module parameters like fill factor (FF), ISC & VOC along
Figure 6: 200W MPPT PV power conversion system architecture
with the design parameters like shape, curve & angle and
by Wang et al. [34]
the environmental factors. This overall approach enables
most favorable layout designs for off-grid or stand-alone
BIPV systems.
the angle of the PV modules. Moreover, the simulated
Pellegrino et al. [32], gives an overview of the tests and results infer that this BIPV system generates more elec-
standards of new BIPV installation systems in Europe. trical power as compared to a BIPV system which is
The European standard which is used for defining vertically installed [33].
the building specifications of a BIPV system is prEN
50583:2012. The primary results of testing conventional Wang et al. [34], implements a solar DC to DC boost
PV modules is reported here along with thermal and opti- converter with 1.5 mm2 maximum power point track-
cal characteristics. It also introduces a European project ing (MPPT) integrated circuit (IC) with very less isolated
named Bfirst “Building-integrated fiber-reinforced solar components. A high tracking efficiency of 99.9% and
technology” which is aimed at realizing explicit BIPV a high conversion efficiency of 95% is achieved from
systems and can be used for new BIPV installation the measurements done with a solar array simulator
projects [32]. (SAS) which is commercially used [34]. In this proposed
method, both off-grid and on-grid systems are achiev-
Newill et al. [33], proposes a BIPV window which can be able. Moreover, this overall 200W MPPT boost converter
used for both electrical energy generation and daylight- can be useful for BIPV systems, vehicular products as well
ing. This BIPV window has a unique feature of adjusting as household applications as mentioned in Figure 6.
 D. SARKAR ET AL.: A SURVEY ON DEVELOPMENT AND RECENT TRENDS OF RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION FROM BIPV SYSTEMS
Kinab et al. [35], identifies and explores the most excel-
lent way of integration of solar PV technologies in
the building envelope such as outer walls, windows,
etc. The Mediterranean region is considered by the
authors as it receives typical solar radiation of about
3200 kWh/m2 /year and around 2650–3400 sunshine
hours/year. Various types of simulation and analysis from
a distinctive commercial building are carried out on the
basis of the size and orientations of the BIPV systems
resulting in the generation of clean renewable energy
from the sun and hence implements sustainable building
architecture [35]. Moreover, the simulation results also
infer that the installation of a BIPV system compensates
about 22% of the building energy consumption.
Ritzen et al. [36], realizes three kinds of BIPV field tests
in facades and rooftops as a demonstration of real-life lab
development and covers different aspects like condensa-
tion & coloring, back string ventilation etc. PV power
generated by zigzag BIPV modules is higher than that
of vertically installed modules. Also, in autumn-spring
seasons zigzag BIPV system is more advantageous as
compared to vertical BIPV systems. In this research work,
the authors report that with a decrease in 0.5% PV power
output, a difference of 17.5% is expected on a spring day
and 10% is expected on an autumn day [36].
Veldhuis & Reinders [37], presents a software tool
“VR4PV” for determining the shading features of BIPV
or PV systems in a virtual 3D environment. The PV cell
output power and the shadow location of PIPV and BIPV
systems can be easily determined by the “VR4PV” soft-
ware tool. A case of PV powered street light is used for
evaluating the shading features. Finally, the results con-
clude that PV cell optimal configuration can be done
through “VR4PV” software while designing the PV pow-
ered street light [37]. Though “VR4PV” takes care of the
neighboring object’s shadow during simulation, it does
not take care of the interactions of complex light like the
object transmittance or reflections.
Zeng et al. [38], discusses and gives a design example of
calculation of BIPV modules tilt angle in order to reduce
the shading related impacts and thus maximizes the PV
power output. The economy of the proposed designed
system is evaluated using levelised cost of energy (LCOE)
method and optimized tilt angle outputs are achieved
[38]. The proposed method also uses life cycle emission
studies to certify BIPV systems environmental benefits.
Hence, there is an expectation that BIPV systems will
be appreciably used in the upcoming years due to its
eco-friendly nature.
5
Hwang et al. [39], gives the analysis and effects of apply-
ing energy storage system (ESS) along with BIPV systems
using data that is monitored in real-time. The studies
from the analysis infer that the PV output characteris-
tics compensation is improved after using ESS with office
building integrated PV systems [39]. Thus, it encourages
the concept of net zero energy buildings which is possi-
ble with the help of BIPV systems only. Hence, expansion
of the power system through the incorporation of clean
renewable energy resources with improved infrastructure
and power supply facilities is achieved.
Ghasempourabadi et al. [40], investigates the perfor-
mance monitoring of BIPV facade systems in an urban
environment along with a simulation of real-time shad-
ing for detection of any abnormalities in the overall
system operation. An experiment was conducted on
the basis of various partial shading conditions and the
current-voltage (I-V) characteristics curve of a vertically
mounted CIGS BIPV system is explained. Finally, the
simulation results conclude that a robust BIPV system
can be made from a decision tree and with data visual-
ization tool [40].
Imenes [41], presents and identifies the technical and
architectural integration challenges from the information
collected from BIPV and BAPV systems present in Nor-
wegian climate. The author evaluates the performance
of the BIPV installation system using specific yield (SY),
energy production (EP), and performance ratio (PR) in
situations where data of solar irradiance is available [41].
Data collected in this research work indicates a large spe-
cific yield of 700–900 kWh per kW peak and a proper
functioning BIPV system without much shading effects
can have PR above 0.85 is inferred.
Gui et al. [42], gives the analysis and design of Build-
ing Information Modeling (BIM) software platform for
BIPV installation systems as shown in Figure 7. This
platform supports the integration of domain-specific and
BIM-based models in order to handle BIPV analysis and
design [42]. Analysis modules are also provided with this
platform which makes the inspection of solar irradiation,
shadow, and electrical power output.
Yatim et al. [43], evaluates the most favorable design
of PV modules in BIPV systems for having the favor
of its low payback period. The proposed method simu-
lates a design prototype of 3.3 kW rooftop BIPV system
through “PVsyst” software using four different types of
solar PV modules. The “PVsyst” software identifies the
entire energy yield by the different types of PV modules.
6 D. SARKAR ET AL.: A SURVEY ON DEVELOPMENT AND RECENT TRENDS OF RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION FROM BIPV SYSTEMS
Figure 7: Integrated design & analysis process using BIM soft-
ware by Gui et al. [42]
Economical aspect for selection of PV module was cal-
culated using life cycle cost (LCC), payback period (PP)
and levelised cost of energy (LCOE) method [43]. Finally,
the studies infer that the payback period of individual PV
module selection lies between 10.8 and 14.8 years. Table 1
gives a brief overview of the research contributions by
different authors related to BIPV installation systems.
A case study by [1] on real-time applications of BIPV
in India at CIL’s Corporate Headquarters at Rajarhat,
Kolkata having the BIPV plant capacity of 140 kW as
mentioned in Figure 8 is described here. The BIPV gen-
eration system consists of 632 solar panels that power the
UPS for computers, emergency as well as the landscape
lighting system of the corporate office of CIL. The addi-
tional features incorporated with it are glazing of dou-
ble layer for heat insulation, paint of low volatile nature
which is made of an organic compound, HVAC system
having thermal storage, sensors sensing movement and
daylight for lighting control as well as water efficient toilet
fittings.
The design and implementation of a practical BIPV sys-
tem given by [44] involve the following steps. They are:-
• A strategy of design.
• Variables of the environment.
• Multifunctionality.
• Construction system and installation situation.
• Structures of the glass layer.
• Design of modules.
• Electrical components.
• Aspects of the economy.
Figure 8: 140 kW BIPV installation system at CIL’s Corporate
Headquarters at Rajarhat, Kolkata, India [1]
In order to ensure safe & easy installation of BIPV
modules, cables with touch-proof plug connectors at the
connection sockets are used for protection against rever-
sal of polarity [44]. Additional features of cables include
resistance against UV, moisture protection & sufficient
insulation for carrying high DC current. Strong safety
protections enabling switching off of DC side during
emergency situations is made through DC isolating cir-
cuit breakers. The subsequent project stages or steps
involved in designing practical BIPV installation projects
along with their tasks as well as the parties involved in
each step is mentioned in Table 2.
The dc power generated by a typical BIPV system
depends on the angle of incident solar irradiation, incli-
nation and orientation of the BIPV panel. The optimum
angle at which the BIPV module is to be placed depends
on the latitude of the particular installation sites and
more specifically the distance from the equator [44].
Optimal positioning of BIPV modules is seldom possible
as it is dependent on the building architecture and this is
a major limitation. In order to mitigate this kind of prob-
lem, BIPV modules that perform effectively in weak &
diffuse light can be used.
Thermal insulation of a BIPV system is very essential
for increasing the energy efficiency of buildings. Exte-
rior wall thermal insulation gives better energy efficiency
in cold geographical areas than interior wall thermal
insulation [45]. Efficacy of energy saving through the
incorporation of building insulation is not only influ-
enced by wall insulation but also by various factors like
interior heat gain, climatic conditions, and type of the
building [46]. Temperature and moisture content that is
present in between the insulating materials and the wall
of a building can be monitored without disturbing by an
Table 1: Some significant contributions related to BIPV development along with its merits & demerits

D. SARKAR ET AL.: A SURVEY ON DEVELOPMENT AND RECENT TRENDS OF RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION FROM BIPV SYSTEMS
Authors Year Contributions Merits Demerits
Strong [4] 1996 Description of the BIPV market and power window based Designing & worldwide development along with the location Detailed design & integration of BIPV system is not
BIPV system. and cost effectiveness of various real-time BIPV systems discussed.
have been discussed.
Liu et al. [11] 2011 Concept & design details of PV DC Building modules based PV DC building module has its own individual MPPT system, low Detailed modeling, controller design & stability of the
BIPV system. cost, inbuilt data monitor and outstanding expandability. overall PV DC BIPV system is not discussed.
Drif et al. [26] 2012 Evaluation of shading losses in grid-connected BIPV Acts as a performance analysis tool and discusses the energy Requires sufficient treatment in data monitoring for finely
systems by using real data. loss & shading effect in a grid-connected BIPV system. fitted curve determination corresponding to the outline
of a clear sky day.
Sung et al. [27] 2012 Experimental learning on diversely placed solar panels Energy generation of BIPV system is affected by the angle Mitigation of building self-shading phenomenon is not
related to applications of BIPV power conversion of azimuth, time-dependent insolation & self-shading discussed.
techniques. phenomenon of the building.
Zou et al. [28] 2012 Analyzing the effectiveness of a grid-connected GC-BIPV Operational performance of a BIPV subsystem is analyzed and No discussion about MPPT techniques.
System at Jiangsu Province located in China. a data acquisition system is used to measure different BIPV
parameters.
Sechilariu et al. [29] 2013 BIPV with the energy storage system (ESS) & smart grid The relevance of DC BIPV along with integrated energy No discussion on uncertainties and predictions on sources
(SG) communication. management & communication system is very effectively of power, the request of loads & efficiency of energy
discussed. conversion systems.
Klironomos et al. [30] 2013 Estimates the potential of BIPV modules in industrial The energy potential of BIPV systems is evaluated using The case study is done on a specific building.
buildings on the Oinofyta Viotias zone of industrial statistical data, proper energy audits as well as recent
buildings. PV market data. Greenhouse gas emission reduction &
sustainability of BIPV system in terms of economy is also
discussed.
Aelenei & Pereira [31] 2013 Design, modeling and thermal performance analysis of The efficiency of the PV module increases as the isolated brick After a few hours, both the thermal efficiencies of BIPV/T &
BIPV-PCM system. or PCM reduces the inside air cavity temperature of the BIPV/T-PCM becomes similar.
BIPV wall. The thermal efficiency of BIPV/T is higher than
BIPV/T-PCM.
Pellegrino et al. [32] 2014 Tests & standards of new BIPV installation system in Europe. In order to meet BIPV system requirements, the standard prEN Still, in the laboratory phase, more development is soon to
50583:2012 is used. Testing of BIPV modules is also reported. arrive.
Newill et al. [33] 2014 Describes a low concentration BIPV having PV cell & BIPV window can be used for both daylighting & energy saving Long-Term & conclusive testing & analysis is required.
window film for daylighting & energy generation. purposes. Fully functional prototype with very minimum
power loss from shading.
Sharma et al. [23] 2014 Under various environmental conditions, MPP tracking A scanning window technique (SWT) based MPPT approach Grid integration of the FPV system is not discussed.
from curve thin-film solar PV modules. for flexible PV (FPV) modules is reported for the first time.
Wang et al. [34] 2014 200-watt boost converter with MPPT and IC for BIPV Low cost & small size of MPPT IC that can be fitted into the Buck or buck-boost converter is not used in the hardware.
applications. junction box.
Kinab et al. [35] 2015 Describes BIPV systems in the Mediterranean climate. Functionalities of various BIPV systems is discussed very No discussion on MPPT & disadvantages of BIPV system
effectively. integration.
Ritzen et al. [36] 2015 Analyses the field testing of BIPV systems in the The efficiency of zigzag BIPV modules is higher than that of Designing & installing zigzag BIPV module involves
Netherlands. vertical BIPV modules. complex process & proper guidelines.
Veldhuis & Reinders [37] 2015 Presents “VR4PV” software simulation tool for determining “VR4PV” software tool easily determines the location of “VR4PV” software tool is not suitable for analysis
the shading features of BIPV or PV systems in a virtual shadows as well as the PV power output of BIPV and PIPV when complex light interactions like reflection and
3D environment. systems. transmittance through objects is present.
(continued)

7
 8
D. SARKAR ET AL.: A SURVEY ON DEVELOPMENT AND RECENT TRENDS OF RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION FROM BIPV SYSTEMS
Table 1: Continued
Authors Year Contributions Merits Demerits
Zeng et al. [38] 2016 Examines the evaluation and design of BIPV systems. Shading problem in BIPV and tilt angle calculation is addressed. No discussion on maximum power extraction or BIPV
Levelized cost of energy (LCOE) method is used for economic installation schemes.
analysis of BIPV systems.
Hwang et al. [39] 2016 Impact of the energy storage system (ESS) in BIPV Real-time monitoring data is used for analysis of BIPV with ESS Operation of the ESS with fluctuating loads is not discussed.
installation systems. in an office building of Korea.
Ghasempourabadi et al. [40] 2016 Simulates and critically analyzes the performance of BIPV Real-time shading simulation tool like Grasshopper & Rhino No discussion on MPPT during shading phenomenon.
systems under shading conditions. are used for detection of BIPV system performance.
Imenes [41] 2016 Analysis of performance of both BIPV & BAPV system in Various BIPV & BAPV installation system is nicely presented & Detailed discussion & comparative analysis is missing.
Norway. described.
Gui et al. [42] 2018 Development of a BIPV system taking into account building Autodesk Revit software platform is used for analysis of BIPV No discussion on converters & MPPT techniques.
information. system. General practices of BIPV design integration is also
presented.
Yatim et al. [43] 2018 PV module selection in terms of techno-economy of BIPV Life cycle cost (LCC) & levelised cost of energy (LCOE) for BIPV No discussion on partial shading phenomenon.
systems with Net Energy Metering (NEM) in Malaysia. system is calculated.
 D. SARKAR ET AL.: A SURVEY ON DEVELOPMENT AND RECENT TRENDS OF RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION FROM BIPV SYSTEMS 9

Table 2: Project stages in designing practical BIPV installation projects [44]

Steps Tasks Parties Involved
Step 1 Consideration of implementable BIPV solutions in the initial planning & design stages BIPV manufacturer
of the project. Architect
Step 2 During the situation of complex installations, advice related to the designs of the BIPV manufacturer
specific project modules is given by the BIPV manufacturer to the electrical engineer. Architect
Project manager
Structural engineer
Electrical engineer
Building shell design engineer
Step 3 Cooperative determination of the product specifications along with the interfaces and BIPV manufacturer
PV system energy yield calculation in details. Architect
Project manager
Electrical engineer
Step 4 Cooperation between the service providers and the BIPV manufacturer related to the BIPV manufacturer
project ensuring development & meeting all specific requirements. Architect
Façade contractor
Electrical engineer
Structural engineer
Step 5 On-site installation of customized solar modules by partner companies and the quality BIPV manufacturer
of modules is assured in terms of guarantees. Architect
Façade contractor

innovative measurement technology developed by [47].
Energy consumption and energy saving in residential and
tertiary buildings are achieved by [48] using various types
of thermal analysis for building automation and control
system through the use of TRNSYS software. Polystyrene
board of 50 mm thickness, when incorporated onto the
outer surfaces of the solid brick wall, results in the
reduction of about 67.5% of hourly heat transfer and its
corresponding peak value gives excellent heat stability
in comparison to a conventional solid brick wall [49].
DeST-h software is used to simulate various conditions
of insulation of building envelope while the maple soft-
ware is used to retrofit the relational equation between
the dynamic investment recovery period of the building
envelope and the heat consumption of building [50]. A
computational tool for analyzing thermal insulation of a
building roof and facilitating the advantages of installing
them for various weather conditions with figures of com-
parison for optimization of the overall cost is presented
by [51].
The results from the techno-economic analysis of micro-
inverter & string-inverter infer that using micro-inverter
topology can achieve a lower Levelized Cost of Energy
(LCOE) as compared to a string-inverter topology under
the conditions of shadow & no-shadow [52]. A solar PV
based micro-inverter is proposed by [53] where perfor-
mance enhancement of the full-bridge micro-inverter is
done through the direct-quadrature (d-q) rotating frame
control technique. An interleaved Flyback Converter
(IFC) along with a flyback transformer is also coupled
for isolating the full-bridge inverter and the overall setup
can be used for residential applications in remote areas.
An informative study by [54] on residential PV systems
based micro-inverter circuit topologies proposes many
advantages like safety, high efficiency, the reliability of
performance, cost, and simplified installation, Volt/VAR
support capability for an extensive range of residential
PV installed systems. The impact of higher penetration
of residential solar PV based microinverter for functions
of grid support onto the electrical distribution network
is presented by [55]. A novel one stage buck-boost con-
verter coupled with PV micro-inverter with the use of
capacitor between them for decoupling power and trans-
formerless double grounded topology ensuring issues of
removing common mode ground current is presented by
[56]. Two strategies for generating suitable references for
control of the inner current loop of the micro-inverter
is proposed by [57], one strategy improves the power
quality while the other strategy detects the peak current.
A review on micro-inverters highlighting the impor-
tant differences between a conventional central inverter
and recent micro-inverters along with grid requirements,
micro-inverter circuit topology, power decoupling strate-
gies, parallel operation of micro-inverters etc. in resi-
dential micro-grid systems is presented by [58]. A com-
parison of power converter structure and control tech-
niques associated with it for three different topologies
for MPPT tracking in a residential PV system is pre-
sented by [59]. A grid-tied micro-inverter having the
rating of 350 VA with the capability of reactive power
control is proposed by [60]. A 230W micro-inverter
system with integrated energy storage facilities is sim-
ulated by [61]. A detailed design of commercial-ready
PV micro-inverter prototype system with filter solu-
tions, topology, power supply, control, and mechanical
packaging is presented by [62]. Some power decou-
pling methods of micro-inverters which mitigates the
10 D. SARKAR ET AL.: A SURVEY ON DEVELOPMENT AND RECENT TRENDS OF RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION FROM BIPV SYSTEMS

Figure 9: Typical system layout of Tesla Powerwall given in Powerwall 2 Datasheet [65]

effect of power mismatch affecting MPPT are introduced

by [63] and thus enhances technical features, cost, and
efficiency.

3. EXISTING INDUSTRIAL PRACTICES & POLICIES

OF THE BIPV SYSTEM
One of the recent advancement in the BIPV system
includes Tesla solar with the Powerwall. Tesla Powerwall
is a complete solution for residential or light commer-
cial use having a fully integrated AC battery system [64]
as showcased in Figure 9. Energy storage for time-based
control, backup, and solar self-consumption are provided
by Tesla Powerwall’s rechargeable lithium-ion battery Figure 10: Tesla Powerwall whole home backup [66]
pack [65].

Powerwall system consists of Powerwall & Backup gate-

way. Backup gateway has built-in intelligence and com-
munications that feeds data onto the Tesla app. The whole
system can be connected to the main electrical panel of
the residence. Depending on the user, the main electri-
cal panel can be upgraded for whole or partial (essential
load) home backup [66] as shown in Figures 10 and 11.
During the event of a grid outage, Powerwall automati-
cally provides backup power assuring energy security for
powering home 24/7.

Some of the important features and functions of Power-

wall are as follows:-
(1) The use of Powerwall and integrated solar PV sys-
tem decreases grid dependency and results in a self-
powered home.
(2) Reliable and seamless backup power in home protec-
tion during power outages.
Figure 11: Tesla Powerwall partial (essential load) home
backup [66]
(3) Energy saving and reduction in the electricity bill.
(4) Real-time home energy management and control
using the Tesla mobile app.
 D. SARKAR ET AL.: A SURVEY ON DEVELOPMENT AND RECENT TRENDS OF RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION FROM BIPV SYSTEMS
An indication of photovoltaic battery energy storage sys-
tem (PV-BESS) is calculated using Storage state of Charge
(SOC) method. The PV-BESS gets charged/discharged
depending on the normal range of SOC i.e.
SOCminimum ≤ SOC ≤ SOCmaximum
Three operating storage modes are assumed: charging
mode, discharging mode & turn-off mode [29]. Energy
storage system (ESS) installation for BIPV or any PV sys-
tem is encouragingly increasing for giving a reliable sup-
ply of electrical energy as well as maintaining economic
operation of load [39]. Time-Of-Use (TOU) pricing for
specifically targeted loads is presented by the authors
along with ESS scheduling depth of discharge (DOD) cal-
culations for operating loads economically through the
implementation of optimization algorithms. The letter
by [67] proposes a battery energy storage system (BESS)
controller with the features of both voltage & current con-
trol having a smooth operating mechanism for control-
ling stand-alone PV or BIPV power system. The entire
PV-BESS or BIPV-BESS can be installed in remote islands
where the grid power is not available.
The technical report on “Urban BIPV in the New Resi-
dential Construction Industry” of International Energy
Agency (IEA) photovoltaic power systems program of
March 2008 related to BIPV system is proposed by [68].
In order to deploy BIPV onto the mainstream BIPV
industry, some policy recommendations are formulated
on the technical report IEA-PVPS-T10-03:2008. They are
as follows:-
(1) Programs should not be created that unintention-
ally results in the weakness of the new home con-
struction market.
(2) Key information regarding PV systems installed on
new homes should be tracked.
(3) Adequate funding and duration of the installa-
tion program must be ensured that results in an
extended planning process for the building indus-
try.
(4) New home builders must be considered for high
incentives.
(5) PV related energy efficiency programs can be coor-
dinated for new residential construction to reduce
transaction cost to builders.
(6) The infrastructure of the installer must be culti-
vated.
(7) To train & educate some key professionals in this
specific residential building industry.
(8) Building community must be engaged in such
kinds of developmental programs.
11
(9) Proper mandates to the builder for PV deployment
at homes.
(10) Financial strategies offering increased loans or low-
interest level for new home purchasers employing
BIPV installation system.
(11) Allocating BIPV home builders for high-density
allowances, low permitting & inspection fees and
short wait times.
(12) Allowing bulk purchases for builder groups &
direct tax rebate to the builder.
The recent report by International energy agency pho-
tovoltaic power systems (IEA PVPS) program on “BIPV
research teams & BIPV R&D facilities” claims BIPV
amongst one of the five most important track for PV
penetration in the huge market. PVPS focuses on inter-
national collaboration resulting in a proper framework
that accelerates BIPV product penetration in the renew-
able energy market [69]. To fulfill this objective six key
developmental features has been made. They are regula-
tory issues, dissemination, environmental aspects, busi-
ness modeling, applied development and research for
BIPV implementation. The current international country
members of IEA PVPS include Austria, Canada, Den-
mark, Italy, Belgium, France, Japan, The Netherlands,
Korea, Norway, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
A comparative analysis of the cost involved between tra-
ditional rooftop PV and BIPV system in a university
building is presented by [70] and is shown in Table 3
below. The conclusion by the authors suggests that the
simple payback period of BIPV system is 10.5 years which
is less than the rooftop PV (RPV) system which is 12 years
without subsidized installation cost.
A BIPV life cycle cost calculator toolkit is developed by
[71] for the assessment of BIPV façade system is con-
ducted at a building of National University Singapore
(NUS) and it is made online at the website of National
Solar Repository (NSR) of Singapore. The toolkit assists
building owners, architects and developers to achieve
a wide range of life cycle cost (LCC) analysis regard-
ing placement, applications and orientations of BIPV in
buildings along with investment requirements, payback
period as well as energy saving and finally reduce CO2
Table 3: Comparison of different parameters of BIPV and
RPV system for the university building proposed by [70]
Different parameters BIPV system RPV system
Annual energy supplied 233152.9 kWh 61463.15 kWh
Annual energy generation 257015.9 kWh 85326.15 kWh
Total cost (INR) 17342500.00 6580000.00
Annual savings (INR) 1404394.00 545949.80
12 D. SARKAR ET AL.: A SURVEY ON DEVELOPMENT AND RECENT TRENDS OF RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION FROM BIPV SYSTEMS
Table 4: Estimated BIPV installation and component costs at
South Africa by [75]
Component Estimated cost (excl VAT)
Modules Rs. 70.00/W Crystalline silicon
modules
Grid-tied inverters Rs. 12.80/W
Stand-alone inverters Rs. 10.50/W
Batteries Rs. 4.00/Ah
Charge controllers Rs. 95.00/Amp including meters
Builders work/Installation 20%
Connection to the grid Rs. 5 000.00 allowance/system
emission. A design software named Sunny Web and an
econometric spreadsheet program is employed by [72]
for calculation of the energy generated as well as techno-
economic feasibility from BIPV façade and rooftop sys-
tem of a building are outlined. The conclusions drawn are
as follows:-
(1) The energy yield of BIPV rooftop system is higher as
compared to BIPV façade system.
(2) Reduction of about 5.97% in energy consumption
can be observed in BIPV systems.
The research article by [73] discusses the challenges and
benefits of a DC micro-grid in commercial buildings.
The results from the economic analysis infer that about
$2.2/W is required for installing an overall marketable
DC micro-grid for BIPV system. Techno-economical fea-
sibility studies of BIPV systems in combination with the
habitat of local consumption is made by [74]. The over-
all system consists of a building model having a high-
efficiency grid connected dc-ac converter along with the
controller interface with a load of 263 kWh which is val-
idated using Matlab & PVSOL software. The financial
feasibility of the BIPV system as compared to conven-
tional PV system is done by [75]. Table 4 shown above
gives the estimation of BIPV installation and component
costs at South Africa.
4. SINGLE DIODE AND DOUBLE DIODE MODEL
OF BIPV MODULE
The basic solar cell present in a typical BIPV module
is the PV cell along with construction materials having
added aesthetics value. For analyzing the operation of a
BIPV or PV system, a reliable and perfect PV cell cir-
cuit modeling is required [76–78]. The most widely used
PV cell model is the single-diode model (SDM) due to its
straightforwardness [79]. At low solar irradiance value,
double-diode model (DDM) is preferred over the single-
diode model [80]. The output measurable variables of
a PV cell or module are voltage (V), current (A) and
Comments
Figure 12: Single-diode equivalent circuit of a BIPV module
power (W). These variables greatly depend on solar irra-
diation (Irr ) and temperature of the BIPV module (T)
[81,82]. A methodology for parameter estimation, using
data at Standard Test Conditions (STC) and data at Nom-
inal Operating Cell Temperature (NOCT), present in the
datasheet of PV module manufacturers is formulated
[83,84]. Explicit equations for modeling all necessary
parameters of the PV cell model is used to directly extract
the parameter values from the PV module datasheet. The
results of the proposed model show very minimum error
between the calculated I-V curves and the experimental
I-V curves [85–87].
4.1 Single-diode Modeling (SDM) of BIPV Module
Single-diode modeling (SDM) gives the I-V and P-V
characteristics of the BIPV module under different con-
ditions of temperature and irradiation (environmental
parameters) [88]. There are two steps that are involved
in modeling the BIPV or PV module; first is the esti-
mation of parameters and second is using this estimated
parameters onto the equivalent circuit model equations
for plotting the I-V and P-V characteristics respectively
[89–93].
Figure 12 shows the single-diode equivalent circuit of
a BIPV module and its output current Isdm (A) can be
expressed as,
   
Vsdm + Isdm Rse
Isdm = Iphc − Irsat exp −1
nVT
Vsdm + Isdm Rse
− (1)
Rp
where Iphc is the photocurrent (A); Irsat is the reverse sat-
uration current of the diode D in model (A); Vsdm is the
output voltage (V); Rse is the equivalent series resistance
(); Rp is the equivalent shunt resistance (); n is the
diode ideality constant; and VT is the junction thermal
voltage (V) and can be expressed as,
NS KT
VT = (2)
q
where Ns is the number of series-connected cells in the
 D. SARKAR ET AL.: A SURVEY ON DEVELOPMENT AND RECENT TRENDS OF RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION FROM BIPV SYSTEMS 13

Figure 13 shows the double-diode equivalent circuit of

a BIPV module and its output current Iddm (A) can be
expressed as,
   
Vddm + Iddm Rse
Iddm = Iphc − Irsat1 exp −1
n1 VT
Vddm + Iddm Rse
Figure 13: Double-diode equivalent circuit of a BIPV module −
Rp
   
BIPV module; K is the Boltzmann’s constant and is equal Vddm + Iddm Rse
− Irsat2 exp −1 (5)
to 1.3806×10−23 J/K; T is the actual cell temperature of n2 VT
the BIPV module (K); and q is the electron charge and is
equal to 1.6021×10−19 C. The photocurrent (Iphc ) gener- where Iphc is the photocurrent (A); Irsat1 is the reverse
ated by a BIPV module depends on both solar irradiation saturation current of the diode D1 in model (A); Irsat2 is
(Irr ) and the cell temperature (T) as shown in Figure 2. the reverse saturation current of the diode D2 in model
The equation of photocurrent (Iphc ) can be expressed as (A); Vddm is the output voltage (V); Rse is the equivalent
follows. series resistance (); Rp is the equivalent shunt resis-
Irr tance (); n1 is the diode ideality constant of the diode
Iphc = [I(phc)n + KI (T − Tn )] (3) D1 ; n2 is the diode ideality constant of the diode D2 ;and
I(rr)n
VT is the junction thermal voltage (V). Substituting Iphc
where I(phc)n is the nominal photocurrent generated by from equation (3) in equation (5), the final output cur-
the BIPV module at Standard Test Condition (STC) as rent (Iddm ) of the double-diode equivalent model of the
given in the datasheet; KI is the current/temperature BIPV cell can be expressed as follows.
coefficient (A/K); T and Tn are the actual and nominal
cell temperature of the BIPV module (K); Irr and I(rr)n Irr
Iddm = [I(phc)n + KI (T − Tn )]
are the actual and nominal solar irradiation values of I(rr)n
the BIPV module (W/m2 ). The Standard Test Condition    
Vddm + Iddm Rse
(STC) refers to the conditions as Irr = 1000 W/m2 , air − Irsat1 exp −1
n1 VT
mass (AM) = 1.5 and cell temperature (T) = 25°C. STC    
keeps up a correspondence with the irradiance value and Vddm + Iddm Rse
− Irsat2 exp −1
sunlight spectrum, which is incident upon the sun, facing n2 VT
37° tilted surface with the sun positioned at an angle of Vddm + Iddm Rse
41.81° above the horizon. Substituting Iphc from equation − (6)
Rp
(3) in equation (1), the final output current (Isdm ) of the
single-diode equivalent model of the BIPV cell can be
expressed as follows. 5. I-V & P-V CHARACTERISTICS OF DIFFERENT
BIPV PRODUCTS
Irr
Isdm = [I(phc)n + KI (T − Tn )] The electrical energy consumption of a building can be
I(rr)n
    reduced by application of BIPV facade and rooftop sys-
Vsdm + Isdm Rse tems. BIPV installation is economically feasible when
− Irsat exp −1
nVT there is a financial incentive for the development of
Vsdm + Isdm Rse renewable or green energy [100]. Utilization of a building
− (4)
Rp facade for energy and comfort management using Reflec-
tive Adaptive Solar Façade (RASF) is proposed [101].
Facade PV production can be controlled with the energy
4.2 Double-diode Modeling (DDM) of BIPV Module
demand of buildings [19]. Building facade also helps
The modeling accuracy of a single-diode model (SDM) in maintaining indoor illumination and indoor thermal
of a BIPV module can be improved using a double-diode environments [102]. A comprehensive review related to
model (DDM) equivalent circuit. DDM is more accu- BIPV systems is proposed in [103], which is very essential
rate than SDM at lower solar irradiance condition since for simulation, design, financial development, analysis,
it takes into account the recombination losses present in performance evaluation etc. The I-V and P-V charac-
the equivalent circuit and as a result, it is a more perfect teristics of various BIPV products are presented in this
model [94–99]. section.
14 D. SARKAR ET AL.: A SURVEY ON DEVELOPMENT AND RECENT TRENDS OF RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION FROM BIPV SYSTEMS

Table 5: Datasheet values from Mono-crystalline BISOL (BSO

280Wp) and Multi-crystalline BISOL (BSU 255Wp)
Electrical Characteristics BSO 280Wp BSU 255Wp
Nominal Power (PMPP ) 280W 255W
Short Circuit Current (ISC ) 9.35A 8.85A
Open Circuit Voltage (VOC ) 39.9V 38.9V
MPP Current (IMPP ) 9.00A 8.45A
MPP Voltage (VMPP ) 31.1V 30.2V
Voltage Temperature Coefficient (KV ) −0.30%/K −0.31%/K
Current Temperature Coefficient (KI ) +0.046%/K +0.049%/K
Solar Cells (NS ) 60 60
NOCT 44°C 44°C
Temperature Range −40°C to + 85°C −40°C to + 85°C

Figure 14: I-V & P-V characteristics of mono-crystalline BISOL

(BSO 280Wp) BIPV module

Figure 16: I-V & P-V characteristics of SANYO HIT Double 190Wp
(HIP-190Wp) BIPV module

Figure 15: I-V & P-V characteristics of multi-crystalline BISOL

(BSU 255Wp) BIPV module Table 6: Datasheet values from SANYO HIT Double 190Wp
(HIP-190DA3)
Electrical Characteristics HIP-190DA3
Nominal Power (PMPP ) 190W
5.1 Roof-integrated PV Modules Short Circuit Current (ISC ) 3.7A
Open Circuit Voltage (VOC ) 68.1V
Roof-integrated PV modules can be classified as mono- MPP Current (IMPP ) 3.44A
MPP Voltage (VMPP ) 55.3V
crystalline and multi-crystalline BIPV modules. BISOL Voltage Temperature Coefficient (KV ) −0.2804%/°C
BIPV series [104] modules are selected for obtaining Current Temperature Coefficient (KI ) +0.0454%/°C
the I-V and P-V characteristics as shown in Figures 14 Solar Cells (NS ) 96
and 15. The datasheets for mono-crystalline BISOL (BSO
280Wp) BIPV module and multi-crystalline BISOL (BSU
255Wp) BIPV module is used. Electrical specifications
reflected light from the surrounding surfaces. Depend-
of mono-crystalline BISOL (BSO 280Wp) BIPV mod-
ing on the site of panel placement as well as the sys-
ule datasheet [105] and multi-crystalline BISOL (BSU
tem design, 30% enhancement in power can be observed
255Wp) BIPV module datasheet [106] at Standard Test
per square foot [107]. SANYO bifacial BIPV module is
Conditions (STC) is given in Table 5.
selected for obtaining the I-V and P-V characteristics
as shown in Figure 16. The datasheet for SANYO HIT
Double 190Wp (HIP-190DA3) BIPV module is used.
5.2 Bifacial PV Modules for Facades
Electrical specifications of SANYO HIT Double 190Wp
Bifacial BIPV modules generate electricity from both (HIP-190DA3) BIPV module datasheet at Standard Test
incident light of the incoming solar irradiation and Conditions (STC) is given in Table 6.
 D. SARKAR ET AL.: A SURVEY ON DEVELOPMENT AND RECENT TRENDS OF RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION FROM BIPV SYSTEMS
Figure 17: I-V & P-V characteristics of SCHOTT ASI 100Wp BIPV
module
Table 7: Datasheet values from SCHOTT ASI 100Wp
Electrical Characteristics SCHOTT ASI 100
Nominal Power (PMPP ) 100W
Short Circuit Current (ISC ) 3.85A
Open Circuit Voltage (VOC ) 40.9V
MPP Current (IMPP ) 3.25A
MPP Voltage (VMPP ) 30.7V
Voltage Temperature Coefficient (KV ) −0.33%/K
Current Temperature Coefficient (KI ) +0.08%/K
Solar Cells (NS ) 72
5.3 Double Glazed Module with a-Si Cells
SCHOTT ASI 100 [108] double glazed module is selected
for obtaining the I-V and P-V characteristics as shown
in Figure 17. The datasheet for SCHOTT ASI 100 BIPV
module is used. Electrical specifications of SCHOTT ASI
100 double glazed 100Wp BIPV module datasheet at
Standard Test Conditions (STC) is given in Table 7.
6. MPPT TECHNIQUES OF BIPV SYSTEMS
On-grid or off-grid BIPV systems are frequently subjected
to shading effect from the surrounding obstructions
near the building environment like adjacent buildings,
irregular structures, chimney, telephone poles, electri-
cal distribution networks, trees, etc. This kind of shad-
ing phenomena in distributed BIPV modules results in
the decrease of incoming solar irradiance and hence
decrease in the BIPV systems energy generation. Maxi-
mum power point tracking (MPPT) is a vital and essential
requirement for generating maximum power from any
photovoltaic or PV systems under the conditions of typ-
ical irradiance values and partial shading phenomenon
[109]. Moreover, PV systems under the conditions of
partial shading give nonuniform P-V characteristic with
multiple local maximum power points (MPP) [110].
The efficiency of the solar PV panel can be improved
15
through maximum power point tracking (MPPT) tech-
niques [111]. Some of the most popular MPPT tech-
niques are described here in brief.
6.1 Perturb and Observe (P&O)
Perturb and observe (P&O) MPPT algorithm is a very
efficient and straightforward tracking technique. As the
solar insolation value increases, the P&O method shows
drift and this drift is severe when a rapid increase in
insolation takes place. During this phenomenon, conven-
tional P&O algorithm takes an incorrect decision and
thus drift occurs. To avoid this problem of drift, a mod-
ified P&O technique is proposed by [112]. An adaptive
perturb and observe (P&O) with fuzzy control MPPT
technique for PV DC to DC boost converter is presented
[113]. Fuzzy logic is combined with P&O method for its
fast response and simplicity. An innovative adaptation of
the P&O algorithm for tracking maximum power from
a PV panel having decision making and self-predictive
ability is developed [114].
6.2 Incremental Conductance
A new self-adaptive incremental conductance algorithm
for harvesting maximum power based on three succes-
sive operating points on P-V characteristics is developed
by [115]. These three operating points effectively detect
the MPP under normal and dynamic conditions. During
the conditions of partial shading, the P-V characteris-
tics of the solar PV array give multiple peaks. Moreover,
the conventional MPPT algorithm is unable to track the
global MPP or GMPP. A modified incremental conduc-
tance algorithm is proposed by [116] that tracks the
GMPP under partial shading conditions and variations of
load. The duty cycle of DC to DC converter is modulated
by the algorithm to ensure fast MPPT operation. Simula-
tion and hardware execution of incremental conductance
MPPT used in PV power systems with the methodol-
ogy of direct control is presented by [117]. The proposed
system simplifies the control circuit through the elim-
ination of the proportional-integral (PI) control loop.
Incremental conductance algorithm is very effective to
track MPP under the conditions of a rapidly changing
atmosphere.
6.3 Fuzzy Logic
A fuzzy logic based MPPT for a standalone PV sys-
tem is presented by [118]. The overall algorithm is
based on an approach of voltage control of the power
converter having a separate PI controller in order to
adopt the duty cycle. Stable operation is achieved by
16 D. SARKAR ET AL.: A SURVEY ON DEVELOPMENT AND RECENT TRENDS OF RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION FROM BIPV SYSTEMS

the proposed control scheme in the entire PV panel MPPT technique is used for maximum power extrac-
region and results in MPPT. A fuzzy logic controller tion from FPV modules in a practical scenario. The other
based single-ended primary-inductor converter (SEPIC) important observations are as follows:-
is presented by [119] for MPPT operation. The overall
control scheme keeps the voltage stable as well as high (1) A loss 13.5% power generation is seen in conven-
accuracy in the current transition along with small over- tional P&O MPPT technique in an FPV module of
shoot and small steady-state error. In order to improve 220 curve.
the robustness and effectiveness of PV systems, a uni- (2) Using SWT method 14.5% improvement in power
fied T-S fuzzy model based MPP control approach is generation is achieved for an FPV module of 150
presented by [120]. In this proposed method, maximum curve.
power voltage control and direct maximum power con- (3) Tracking and convergence using SWT MPPT tech-
trol is used for MPPT operation. The major advantage nique are fast and accurate.
lies here is that the same control method can be used (4) SWT approach can be applied to complex curve
to achieve MPPT with all the buck, boost or buck-boost shapes with various geographical locations & with
converter topologies. A fuzzy logic based single stage different PV technologies.
power converter for PV powered lighting system appli-
cations is proposed by [121]. The proposed controller An architecture of 200W MPPT BIPV based power con-
controls both the charging and discharging current and verter is proposed by [34] and is shown in Figure 18
thereby improves both the dynamic and steady-state below.
performance.
The DC-DC boost converter proposed by [34] is used
with P&O MPPT technique. The flowchart of the P&O
6.4 Neural Networks
algorithm is given in Figure 19.
A hybrid MPPT technique for solar PV arrays work-
ing under conditions of partial shading is introduced The overall system has high tracking and high conversion
by [122]. The proposed algorithm combines artificial efficiencies. Tracking efficiency is the efficiency of the
neural network (ANN) technique with P&O or incre- MPPT algorithm to extract maximum DC power output
mental conductance MPPT techniques and predicts the from the PV or BIPV panel during different conditions of
global MPP (GMPP) region through estimation of volt- weather while conversion efficiency is the efficiency of the
age boundaries. A detailed survey on ANN based MPPT DC-DC converter coupled with the PV or BIPV panel.
technique is presented by [123]. ANN algorithms feature
numerous capabilities like nonlinear mapping, robust
operation, offline training, high-speed response, compact
solution for multi-variable problems, and less compu-
tational effort. ANN technique becomes very effective
during conditions of rapidly changing environment and
partial shading phenomenon. Conventional MPPT tech-
niques operate very well under the conditions of uniform
insolation but are unable to operate well in non-uniform
insolation. Non-uniform conditions result in multiple
local MPP on P-V plot. Moreover, conventional MPPT
techniques cannot differentiate between local and global
peaks. A novel MPPT system using ANN and fuzzy logic
is proposed by [124] for the partially shaded solar PV
array.

Detailed analysis of the test system on flexible PV (FPV)

modules is carried out by [23] under various conditions
of environment & curve angles. The results infer that the
maximum limit of the curve of an FPV module is 100 for
having almost constant energy output as flat PV systems.
A special scanning window technique (SWT) approach Figure 18: The MPPT architecture of solar BIPV power converter
involving both P&O (direct) and model-based (indirect) proposed by [34]
 D. SARKAR ET AL.: A SURVEY ON DEVELOPMENT AND RECENT TRENDS OF RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION FROM BIPV SYSTEMS 17

(9) Incorporation of an energy storage system (ESS) in

office building results in improved PV output char-
acteristics of BIPV systems.
(10) Building information modeling (BIM) software plat-
form handles BIPV analysis & design which makes
the inspection of shadows, solar irradiance and elec-
trical power output of BIPV modules.

ORCID
Debayan Sarkar http://orcid.org/0000-0002-5648-2905
Anand Kumar http://orcid.org/0000-0002-9893-472X
Pradip Kumar Sadhu http://orcid.org/0000-0001-8104-5232

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Authors
Debayan Sarkar was born in Kharagpur,
West Bengal, India in 1992. He received
his B.Tech degree in Electrical Engineer-
ing & M.Tech degree in Power Systems
from Department of Electrical Engineer-
ing, National Institute of Technology, Dur-
gapur, India in the year 2015 & 2017
respectively. Presently, he is pursuing his
Ph.D. under the guidance of Prof. P. K. Sadhu, Depart-
ment of Electrical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technol-
ogy (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad, India. His research
interests include maximum power extraction from BIPV and
roof-integrated PV systems, solar photovoltaic power genera-
tion techniques, DC-DC power electronics converter topolo-
gies, IoT in electrical engineering applications, monitoring, and
analysis of dielectric strength of transformer oil & High Volt-
age Engineering. Presently, he is engaged in a research work
entitled, “Maximum Power Extraction Approach from Build-
ing Integrated Photovoltaic’s (BIPV)”.
Corresponding author. Email: debayansarkar92@gmail.com
Anand Kumar was born in Bokaro, Jhark-
hand, India in 1991. He received his
B.E degree in Electrical and Electron-
ics Engineering from the Rajiv Gandhi
Technological University, Bhopal, Madhya
Pradesh, India in 2012 and M.E degree
in Power Electronics (Electrical Engineer-
ing) from Birla Institute of Technology,
Mesra, Ranchi, India in 2014. He served as an Assistant
23
122. H. M. El-Helw, A. Magdy, and M. I. Marei, “A hybrid
maximum power point tracking technique for par-
tially shaded photovoltaic arrays,” IEEE. Access., Vol. 5,
pp. 11900–11908, Jun. 2017. doi:10.1109/ACCESS.2017.
2717540
123. L. M. Elobaid, A. K. Abdelsalam, and E. E. Zakzouk,
“Artificial neural network-based photovoltaic maximum
power point tracking techniques: A survey,” IET Renew.
Power Gener., Vol. 9, no. 8, pp. 1043–1063, Nov. 2015.
doi:10.1049/iet-rpg.2014.0359
124. Syafaruddin, E. K. and T. Hiyama, “Artificial neural
network-polar coordinated fuzzy controller based maxi-
mum power point tracking control under partially shaded
conditions,” IET Renew. Power Gener., Vol. 3, no. 2, pp.
239–253, Jun. 2009. doi:10.1049/iet-rpg:20080065
Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering at
Guru Gobind Singh Educational Society Technical Campus
(GGSESTC), Kandra, Bokaro, India. He is presently pursu-
ing Ph.D. in Department of Electrical Engineering at Indian
Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad,
India. His Research Interest includes Power Electronics Con-
verters, High-Frequency Resonant Converter, Direct AC-AC
converters, applications of Resonant Converter in Domestic as
well as Industrial Induction Heating systems. At present, he
has engaged in research work on “Analysis and Power Control
technique in High-Frequency Inverter in Induction Heating
System”.
Pradip Kumar Sadhu received his B.E.,
M.E., and Ph.D. (Engineering) degrees
in Electrical Engineering from Jadavpur
University, West Bengal, India. He is
presently working as a Professor of the
Department of Electrical Engineering of
the Indian Institute of Technology (Indian
School of Mines), Dhanbad, India. He has
a total of 30 years of experience including 18 years of teach-
ing and research plus 12 years in the industry. He has four
granted patents and twenty-seven patents that are under pro-
cess. He has several journal and conference publications at
national and international levels. He is the principal investiga-
tor of a few government-funded projects. His current research
interest includes power electronics applications, the application
of high-frequency converters, energy efficient devices, energy
efficient drives, computer-aided power system analysis, con-
dition monitoring, lighting and communication systems for
underground coal mines.