7.

4 Integration of PV modules
PV modules can be integrated into stick-curtain wall systems either in the vision
area or in the spandrel area of the façade. Single- or double-glazed units can be
replaced by clear or opaque, single- or double-glazed PV modules (Fig. 7.4). PV
modules can be mounted and weatherproofed into the façade in the same way as
ordinary glass panels.
If PV modules are integrated into the vision area of the curtain wall, the modules
would be laminated onto a carrier glass that would form the outer lite of a clear
double-glazed unit and include low emissivity, solar control or high-performance
coatings. To avoid glass breakage due to thermal shock, the glass laminate would
be likely to feature heat-treated glazing. The build-up of the double-glazed unit
would also need to withstand other loads such as wind loading and impact from
building occupants. More details on glazing are given in Chapter 8.

If PV modules are integrated into the spandrel area of the curtain wall, an opaque
or semi-transparent solar laminate could be used. The semi-transparent type
would be used in a shadow box to create an impression of depth and light penetra-
tion, though there is no actual vision through the glass to the building interior.
The PV modules could be integrated into single or double-glazed units. If a double
glazed unit is chosen, coatings or ceramic fritting can be applied to one of the
panes, but care must be taken that the efficiency is not reduced by shading the
actual PV modules.

For a spandrel or shadow-box construction, the cavity behind the PV module needs
to be drained and pressure-equalised. The inner part is formed by an insulated
panel. The heat build-up in the spandrel cavity or shadow box would require heat-
treated glass to be used for the outer pane.

aluminium mullion

spacer bar

cabling

aluminium transom

aluminium pressure cap

gasket

inner glass pane of

double-glazed unit

glazed PV module laminated

onto carrier glass

Fig. 7.4 Detail of PV modules and connections in a

stick system curtain wall. The PV modules are lami-
nated onto a carrier glass.

92 7. STICK-SYSTEM CURTAIN WALLS