Energy saving in residential apartments by using PV shading

Abstract

Because of the high price of energy and its continually soaring prices, an alternative source of energy can be very beneficial. Solar energy is a renewable and free source which can be utilized by PV panels to generate electricity. This study investigates the performance of PV panels on vertical surfaces as a shading device. Performance of a vertical PV panel being added to existing shading on students apartments in Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) is evaluated in terms of electricity production and energy savings. The amount of electricity demand and electricity production of a sample unit in a residential building in UTM campus is evaluated. Mathematical calculations based on Green Building Index (GBI) data are utilized in determining the amount of electricity production. The calculation results were compared to electricity bills from the electricity supplier (Tenaga Nasional Berhad) and illustrated that PV shading saved around 30% in electricity demand in the sample unit. Furthermore, the tenant of the apartments were questioned about their willingness and responsibilies associated with PV installation. The survey revealed that most tenants were willing to apply the PV panels and maintain them. Finally, in order to achieve higher performance, maintenance strategies and different placements are suggested to ensure higher electricity production and better energy saving through PV shadings.