The landscape of renewable energy is evolving rapidly, particularly in the realm of photovoltaic (PV) systems installed on rooftops. A recent study conducted by Muharrem Hilmi Aksoy from KONYA TEKNİK ÜNİVERSİTESİ has shed light on the significant influence of azimuth angles on the performance of medium-scale PV systems, particularly in non-ideal orientations. Published in ‘MANAS: Journal of Engineering’, this research could have profound implications for the construction sector, as it highlights new opportunities for maximizing energy efficiency in building designs.
The study modeled a grid-connected PV system with a capacity of 148 kWp at the Konya Technical University campus, utilizing PVsyst software to analyze how different orientations—north, south, east, and west—affect energy production. Traditionally, PV panels have been installed primarily facing south; however, this research suggests that buildings with roofs oriented in other directions can also be viable for PV installations. “The results indicate that while south-facing panels yield the highest energy production, east and west orientations are still economically feasible,” Aksoy notes.
The findings reveal that the south-facing panels achieved an impressive effective irradiation value of 1964.4 kWh/m², significantly outperforming panels oriented at other angles. The annual electricity production from the south-facing system was 254.77 MWh, which is notably higher than systems facing east, west, and north by 19.66%, 22.55%, and 69.41%, respectively. This data underscores the importance of orientation in optimizing energy output, a crucial factor for architects and builders looking to integrate renewable energy solutions into their projects.
From an economic perspective, the study also calculated the Basic Payback Period (BPP) for the various orientations, revealing that south-facing systems have a BPP of 4.08 years, while those facing north took the longest at 6.92 years. These figures suggest that while south-facing installations are the most effective, east and west orientations can still be considered viable options, particularly in urban settings where roof space and orientation may be limited.
As the construction industry increasingly embraces sustainability, the implications of this research are significant. It provides a roadmap for building designers and developers to rethink traditional approaches to PV installations. By optimizing roof orientations, they can not only enhance energy efficiency but also increase property value and reduce operational costs.
Muharrem Hilmi Aksoy’s research is a timely contribution to the ongoing dialogue about renewable energy in the construction sector. It serves as a reminder that even in non-ideal conditions, innovative approaches to PV system installations can yield substantial benefits, paving the way for a more sustainable future. As the industry continues to adapt to climate challenges, studies like this will be instrumental in shaping the next generation of energy-efficient buildings.