Transparent photovoltaic integrated in the double skin facade for the energy requalification of the Italian typical buildings of the 60s and 70s

The redevelopment of the existing building stock is essential to reach sustainability goals, worldwide. The energy retrofit measure analyzed in the study is based on the installation of a double skin facade with the integration of transparent photovoltaic on a structural exoskeleton that has the function of providing the building with a higher level of structural and seismic safety. The examined building is an Italian typical building construction of the 60s and 70s, i.e., it represents an archetype building and not a real building. After carefully collecting the input data, the graphical software DesignBuilder® is used to model the building geometry and the HVAC systems, while EnergyPlus software is used for dynamic energy simulation. The model is validated against the energy need for the type of reference buildings. Initially, the effect related to the double skin façade is assessed, and then a gradual inclusion of the transparent photovoltaic is implemented. Therefore, the energy benefit, in terms of primary energy consumption, due to the combined use of the two technologies is evaluated. When PV panels cover the entire area of the external facade, a saving of 55% in primary energy consumption is achieved.