| Author: | Tsui, Siu Lung |
| Title: | Seasonal performance assessment and economic feasibility of rooftop solar PV systems in highrise buildings in Hong Kong |
| Advisors: | Li, Heng (BRE) |
| Degree: | DIREC |
| Year: | 2024 |
| Subject: | Solar energy Photovoltaic power systems Photovoltaic power generation Building-integrated photovoltaic systems -- China -- Hong Kong Hong Kong Polytechnic University -- Dissertations |
| Department: | Department of Building and Real Estate |
| Pages: | x, 192 pages : color illustrations |
| Language: | English |
| Abstract: | Hong Kong's urban skyline is a complex environment for renewable energy solutions, particularly rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on high-rise buildings. This thesis presents a comprehensive evaluation of the operational performance and economic feasibility of three different solar installations atop a 150m high commercial building in Kwai Chung. The installations have capacities of 11 kW, 62.5 kW, and 104.85 kW. Two years of empirical data with a variety of panel types, inclinations, and orientations, were collected and analyzed. The research delves into the seasonal performance of these installations, scrutinizing how factors such as weather patterns, temperature fluctuations, and urban shading influence energy output. The study identifies the substantial impact of non-ideal orientations and tilt angles on solar yield and explores the efficacy of innovative design solutions like bifacial panels and strategic panel placement to offset these limitations. Importantly, the study addresses the structural challenges inherent in mounting solar arrays on high-rises, particularly in typhoon-prone regions. It underscores the necessity of integrating structural engineering principles and employing lightweight materials and reinforced mounting systems. This will ensure the safety and longevity of the installations. Economic assessments, including cost-benefit analysis and the role of policy incentives like feed-in tariffs, are conducted to determine the financial viability of these systems, considering the high upfront costs and potential energy savings. Public awareness and acceptance are also considered, acknowledging their importance in the broader adoption of solar technology. The study culminates in a set of design and implementation guidelines that pave the way for enhancing the performance and scalability of rooftop solar PV systems in densely populated urban areas. By tailoring solutions to the specific architectural and environmental contexts of Hong Kong's high-rises, the thesis contributes critical insights into the creation of sustainable and economically viable urban solar energy systems. This study is poised to support Hong Kong's transition toward a more sustainable energy paradigm. It also demonstrates the potential of rooftop solar PV technology in urban settings worldwide. |
| Rights: | All rights reserved |
| Access: | restricted access |
Files in This Item:
| File | Description | Size | Format | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7629.pdf | For All Users (off-campus access for PolyU Staff & Students only) | 3.01 MB | Adobe PDF | View/Open |
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