Development of a Visualization Platform for Power Generation Analysis in Urban Building-Integrated Photovoltaic Systems

Xi Chen, Hai Long and Ye Xia ()
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Xi Chen: School of Design, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
Hai Long: China-EU Institute for Clean and Renewable Energy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
Ye Xia: Evaluation Statistics and Information Technology Department, Hubei Academy of Scientific and Technical Information, Wuhan 430071, China

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 10, 1-19

Abstract: Urban high-density planning and the rise of super-high-rise buildings have significantly limited the development of distributed photovoltaic (PV) systems, creating an urgent need for optimized three-dimensional (3D) layout strategies within urban building spaces. Given that PV power generation is influenced by environmental factors and building spatial configurations, a 3D panoramic visualization tool is essential to intuitively display relevant data and support decision-making for government planners and PV operators. To address this, we developed a visualization platform to assess the integrated PV power generation potential of buildings at both city and single-building levels. The platform enables a 3D spatial panoramic display, where building surfaces are color-coded to clearly represent key performance metrics, such as power generation capacity, installation costs, and potential electricity savings. This intuitive visualization allows stakeholders to identify optimal PV installation areas and evaluate economic benefits effectively. This article details the implementation of the visualization platform across four key aspects: data generation and input, power generation and economic calculation, building model creation and data mapping, and visual interface design, aiming to facilitate the efficient planning and deployment of distributed photovoltaic systems in complex urban environments.

Keywords: urban building-integrated photovoltaic; power generation analysis; Unreal Engine; 3D visualization; building model (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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