BIPV-Booster - Game changer for façade-integrated PV systems: Development of proof-free constructions regarding fire protection

Starting point / motivation

Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) has a great potential and therefore also great significance for the energy transition, particularly for achieving the expansion targets in accordance with the Austrian "Erneuerbaren-Ausbau-Gesetz" (EAG). While there are problems with public acceptance for wind farms and free-field PV systems, there is a very high level of acceptance for photovoltaics on roofs and façades.

Within BIPV, façade-integrated systems could make a significant contribution, but this potential is currently still largely untapped.

A very important reason for the slow implementation of façade-integrated PV systems stems from the fact that the current fire protection regulations especially for taller buildings require non-combustible façades. If there is a deviation from this requirement, as is the case with a façade-integrated PV system, it is necessary to provide evidence that the façade-integrated PV system does not lead to an increase in the fire risk. In the course of such procedures, the original design often has to be revised and the ultimately usable area for PV is significantly reduced.

Contents and goals

The central objective is to develop a catalogue of "proof-free constructions" regarding fire protection for façade-integrated photovoltaic systems, especially for the more difficult case of high-rise buildings.

Furthermore, the project is investigating possible improvements in module design and mounting options (glass, frame constructions), with which fire protection requirements can be more easily met, in co-operation with Austrian module manufacturers.

Methods

The project begins with a potential study, which in addition to surveying the façade potential in Austria also records the most frequently implemented façade and mounting types and takes the international context into account.

Based on the results of the potential study and previous experience, solutions for possible verification-free constructions are first developed "on paper". The test set-ups and constructions to be tested in fire tests are then defined. Based on current preliminary considerations, around 20 fire tests appear realistic. The fire tests are supplemented by electrical and material-related module tests before and after the fire tests.

The modules will be optimised for façade integration in terms of the materials used, design and mounting with a focus on fire protection during the course of the project.

Expected results

The project is being rounded off with a guideline that summarises the test results and the findings derived from them and describes the design specifications for the possible proof-free constructions. Simplifying and standardising the verification process for façade-integrated PV systems with regard to fire risk is intended to facilitate and accelerate their implementation.

Project management

TPPV - Austrian Technology Platform Photovoltaics

Project or cooperation partners

• Dieter Moor I Arconsol
• ertex solartechnik GmbH
• IBS - Institut für Brandschutztechnik und Sicherheitsforschung Gesellschaft m.b.H.
• MA 39 - Prüf-, Inspektions- und Zertifizierungsstelle der Stadt Wien
• OFI - Österreichisches Forschungsinstitut für Chemie und Technik
• Schöberl & Pöll GmbH
• SONNENKRAFT GmbH
• Unterfurtner GmbH

TPPV Austrian Technology Platform Photovoltaics
Mariahilfer Straße 37-39
A-1060 Wien
Tel.: +43 (664) 619 25 72
E-mail: lukas.plessing@tppv.at
Web: tppv.at