Energy impact of vertical agrivoltaics system on building facades
Authors:
Yijun Lu (1), Chun Liang Tan (1), Marcel Ignatius (2), and Shanshan Tong (2)
(1) Department of Architecture, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore
(2) Department of the Built Environment, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore
Abstract:
Climate change and the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect pose critical challenges in tropical cities, increasing energy demand and reducing outdoor comfort. This study explores a novel double-skin Agrivotaics (Agri-PV) system that integrates photovoltaic (PV) panels and vertical greenery on building façades, aiming to enhance energy efficiency while mitigating UHI impacts. Field experiments and simulations were conducted to assess the system’s thermal and energy performance under Singapore’s tropical climate. Field data from clear sunny days in 2024 October show that applying greenery results in PV panel surface temperatures that are 0.4°C cooler and internal wall temperatures up to 2.5°C lower than concrete façades, due to the combined shading and evapotranspiration effects of greenery. Annual simulation results further confirm the benefits, indicating lower heat transfer, a reduction of at least 1°C in interior surface temperatures on average, reduced cooling loads, and lower annual Energy Use Intensity (EUI), particularly in air-conditioned scenarios. Although PV heat generation was not included in the simulation, theclose alignment with experimental data[ST1] supports the system’s practical applicability. This research highlights the synergistic benefits of integrating greenery and PV on building envelopes, demonstrating a feasible and scalable solution for climate-responsive urban design, on-site renewable energy generation, and passive cooling, contributing to sustainable development goals in tropical urban environments.