Thermographic analysis of a building integrated photovoltaic system

A residential-scale building integrated photovoltaic (BiPV) cogeneration system has been thermographically investigated. The results are useful in calibrating the numerical models created to predict the system's operational temperatures. The combined heat and power system is based on existing BiPV roofing technology with the addition of a modular heat recovery unit. The convection of the air behind the panels will serve both to cool the photovoltaic panels and provide a heat source for the residence. The analysis allows for the interpretation of the surface emissivities and operating temperatures, as well as qualitative graphic analysis of temperature gradients.