A hybrid numerical-analytical model for thermal and electrical performance analysis of building-integrated photovoltaic systems: A case study in a hot-arid climate

• A hybrid numerical-analytical method is developed for analysis of BIPV systems. • Numerical solution of energy equation in PV layer is coupled with airflow in channel. • A case study in a hot-arid climate is performed under free and forced convection. • Annual performance of the system is discussed. Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) systems incorporate solar panels into the building envelope, allowing them to function both as electricity generators and as architectural components. Since the electrical efficiency and power output of PV modules decrease linearly with rising operating temperature, thermal management plays a crucial role in their performance—particularly in hot-arid climates with the risk of overheating. In this study, the thermal behavior and annual performance of a BIPV Double-Skin Façade (BIPV-DSF) system are analyzed for a hot-arid region. A hybrid numerical–analytical model is developed by simultaneous solution of two-dimensional energy equations in wall and PV, coupled with the one-dimensional air flow in the channel obtained analytically. Results show that on the hottest day of the year, the PV panel reaches a maximum temperature of 61.8 °C, remaining below the critical temperature limit of commercial PV modules. Variations in geometric parameters were found to have only minor effects on system performance. Among different PV technologies, the amorphous silicon experienced higher operating temperatures and lower efficiencies than mono- and polycrystalline types. Additionally, performance analysis under forced convection cooling demonstrated similar thermal behavior to the natural convection case, and as building height increases, approaching the maximum temperature observed in free convection condition. Finally, the annual performance evaluation across three façade orientations showed that the south-facing system produced the highest electrical output of 209.7 kWh/m 2 . As forced convection increased the net power generation by only 1%, the naturally ventilated BIPV-DSF system is the more practical and efficient option.