LAUSR

Abstract This article presents the Life-cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) and Energy Payback Time (EPBT) of Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) thermal systems with reference to Indian weather conditions. The insolation and optimum tilt angle values are based on modified HDKR (Hay, Davies, Klucher, Reindl) model which accounts for hourly insolation considering shadow effect. Electrical and thermal performance of semi-transparent BIPV thermal system is evaluated for different mass flow rate of air through the duct with series combinations. EPBT and LCC of BIPV thermal systems are evaluated for three different orientations of PV modules i.e., optimum tilt angle, horizontal and vertical orientations by considering adverse effect of shadow. The cost of energy produced by the system ranges between 1.61 and 3.61 US$/kW h depending on the climatic conditions of the place and the EPBT of the system is found to be ranging between 7.30 years and 16.9 years which is lower than the expected service life (30 years) of the modules. Both LCCA and EPBT are increased because of shadow effect but these values are decreased due to air flow through the duct which is provided below the PV module. Thus, the BIPV thermal system is viable both financially and environmentally and this may be used as a major renewable energy source. A contour map of EPBT and LCA is presented for all state capital of India for BIPV thermal system oriented with optimum tilt angle.