This paper assesses the potential for using building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV)
roof shingles made from triple-junction amorphous silicon (3a-Si) for electrification
and as a roofing material in tropical countries, such as Accra, Ghana. A model roof
was constructed using triple-junction amorphous (3a-Si) PV on one section and
conventional roofing tiles on the other. The performance of the PV module and tiles
were measured, over a range of ambient temperatures and solar irradiance. PVSyst (a
computer design software) was used to determine the most appropriate angle of tilt. It
was observed that 3a-Si performs well in conditions such as Accra, because it is
insensitive to high temperatures. Building integration gives security benefits, and
reduces construction costs and embodied energy, compared to freestanding PV
systems. Again, it serves as a means of protection from salt spray from the oceans and
works well even when shaded. However, compared to conventional roofing materials,
3a-Si would increase the indoor temperature by 1-2 °C depending on the surface area
of the roof covered with the PV modules. The results presented in this research
enhance the understanding of varying factors involved in the selection of an
appropriate method of PV installation to offset the short falls of the conventional
roofing material in Ghana
