Recovery Act - Performance Monitoring and Actionable Alert Messaging for Building Integrated Photovoltaics

Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) systems present significant challenges with respect to optimal energy efficiency of Photovoltaic (PV) arrays. In these systems, the PV panels replace roof tops, and other building components such as windows. Due to their diverse locations and orientations, influence of numerous environmental factors can significantly reduce the performance and overall efficiency rendering the BIPV system economically infeasible. Detection of underperformance and its timely resolution are therefore critical to the cost-effective operation and integration with the Smart Grid. In the proposal we will develop the capability to detect and monitor faults in real-time. Following detection and classification, an actionable alert message will be sent to a field technician for maintenance scheduling. Additionally, an alert message will be sent to the building/home owner with recommendations on optimal use of appliances given the current performance of the photovoltaic system. The solar power integrators have struggled with four issues for some time: Under-performance (losses), lack of full monitoring, fire and maintenance safety, and module theft. A wave of no less than a dozen announced products, services and combination offerings addressing performance optimization have appeared during the past year. These products and services all require major paradigm changes, or need to be redesigned which is more difficult to justify. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits: Wattminder