Sensitivity Analysis for 3E Assessment of BIPV System Performance in Abadan in Southwestern Iran

In Iran, due to the problems and constraints of fossil fuels and the need to maximize the use of solar potential, one of the best ways is the application of photovoltaic systems integrated with buildings. Due to the significant dependence of solar cell performance on the availability of radiation, it is necessary for architects to have an accurate assessment of the amount of electricity produced in different conditions. Therefore, in the present work, using HOMER software, the energy-econo-Enviro (3E) potential of a Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) in Abadan was studied. The effect of slope and azimuth of solar cells as well as cloudiness and system losses were investigated using sensitivity analysis. The results showed that the PV-grid system was the most economical option and after the azimuth angle of zero degree, the positive azimuth angle was the most economical. The results also showed that the slope of 30 degree and the angle of azimuth equal to zero was appropriate, for which the price per kWh of generated electricity was calculated to be $0.09. For the use of solar cells in the vertical wall of the building, the southwest direction was the most suitable and based on the results, it was suggested that the western wall of the building should be in the form of “inclined PVs with windows”. The authors of this paper hope that the results of the present work can be used by architects and energy decision-makers as a guide in developing the BIPV use in Iran.