The Assessment of Electricity Self-Sufficiency Potential of Facade-Applied Photovoltaic Systems Based on Design Scenarios: A Case Study of an Apartment Complex in the Republic of Korea

Abstract

The performance of facade-applied photovoltaic (FPV) systems in high-rise apartment complexes varies based on the height and layout of the buildings, influencing the overall energy efficiency of the complex. This study assesses the potential of FPV systems to achieve electricity self-sufficiency in apartment complexes. Focusing on a single apartment complex in Seoul, South Korea, the geometry and layout of each building are used to estimate electricity consumption and assess the impact of FPV systems. The electricity consumption of the apartment complex was estimated based on the electricity energy use intensity derived from the analysis of public data and the gross floor area of the apartment complex, yielding an annual electricity consumption of 1803.7 MWh. Two types of photovoltaic (PV) systems were considered: rooftop-mounted photovoltaic (RFPV) systems and FPV systems installed on the south-facing facades of buildings. Three FPV design scenarios were examined (Scenario A: full facade coverage; Scenario B: horizontal-only installation; Scenario C: vertical-only installation), with no design variations for the RFPV system. The RFPV system was estimated to contribute 30.7% (553.8 MWh/yr) of the complex’s electricity consumption. The remaining electricity consumption, 1249.9 MWh/yr, is met by the FPV systems, with self-sufficiency rates under the three FPV design scenarios found to be 83.3% for Scenario A, 33.6% for Scenario B, and 64.6% for Scenario C. These findings highlight the need for additional PV installations or the incorporation of other renewable energy technologies to achieve full electricity self-sufficiency. This study provides a foundational model for applying PV systems to high-rise apartment complexes, offering insights for further research and real-world implementation.