BIM data management and interoperability through the design, construction, and operational phases of building photovoltaic installations

Abstract

The EU continues to adopt more strategies to improve the sustainability of its built environment. One of the largely supported strategies is the implementation of PV technology for green energy generation. Considering the magnitude of some PV installations and the role PV can play in the building energy sector, it is important to perform simulations to generate data-driven estimates of the PV investment to determine its feasibility based on the expected energy generation and cost-benefit. Beyond the installation stage of building PV systems, it is also vital to monitor the performance of PV systems to ensure optimal outcomes. This study addressed the topic of building PV simulation to improve the existing methods so that the results of PV simulations are communicated throughout the building lifecycle, particularly the operational life of the building using BIM technologies. This study used a design science research methodology based on grounded theory from a systematic review of 22 research articles and 3 case studies. A workflow is recommended to fill gaps and limitations in existing workflows. This workflow was demonstrated and validated using a selected building as a case study. The workflow improved bidirectional data exchange between BIM and PV simulation tools and stored relevant PV performance KPIs in BIM, OpenBIM and a Digital Twin.