Integration of Transparent Photovoltaic Panels into Buildings

The integration of photovoltaic panels, which are used to provide the energy demanded by buildings, is an important field of study today. Today, the use of photovoltaics on roofs is common. However, the facade area is greater than the roof area. Therefore, more energy can be produced when photovoltaic panels are used on facades. However, architects prefer to use aesthetic structural elements on facades. Therefore, transparent photovoltaic panels that provide an aesthetic appearance are needed.In addition to generating energy, transparent photovoltaic panels can be produced transparent or coloured with different transparency values. Thus, they give identity to the building and raise awareness in this way. The aim of this study is to examine the transparent photovoltaic technologies that enable the integration of photovoltaic panels into buildings, beyond its use just on the roof.In addition, different areas of application of transparent photovoltaic panels and the opportunities they offer to architecture were evaluated. The relationship between transparency value, aesthetic concern and efficiency value were analysed through case studies. Comparison and analysis method was used according to the transparency values of the case studies. With this study, the opportunities offered by transparent photovoltaic panels to architecture are explained and it is aimed to be a guide for architects.