Energy efficient house with integrated photovoltaics - a case study from South Africa

Abstract

An energy efficient dwelling with building integrated photovoltaics has been built and monitored at the University of Fort Hare, Alice campus, South Africa, This was part of an initiative to implement energy efficiency measures and utilize renewable energies in the residential sector: The PV generator was mounted on the northern roof as part of the building envelope thereby replacing the conventional roofing material as well as supplying the electrical energy requirements of the building appliances Flat plate solar water heaters supply hot water to the household, Passive solar design concepts were used to ensure passive indoor nearing and cooling using direct solar access and natural ventilation, respectively. A data acquisition system that monitors electrical and thermal performance of photovoltaic panels was installed, Indoor and outdoor weather conditions were also recorded.