Benefits - Building Integrated Photovoltaics

Benefits

Over the years, Wisconsin Public Service has taken an aggressive stance with regard to the use of energy and its impact on the environment. Public Service is committed to looking for environmentally friendly ways to serve the growing demand for energy. And, when it comes to regulatory compliance, Public Service exceeds stringent air emission and greenhouse gas regulations set by state and federal agencies. In its role as an environmental steward, Public Service continually researches emerging technologies that have the potential to provide energy in an environmentally friendly manner. Photovoltaics is one such technology.

The construction of Mary Ann Cofrin Hall on the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay campus is a research effort designed to evaluate Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV).

The project adds credibility and exposure to this exciting new technology, encourages Wisconsin builders and developers to deploy modest BIPV systems in new construction, and assists in establishing a sustainable photovoltaics infrastructure in Wisconsin.

The project provides a visible demonstration of the viability of an emerging technology in a real-world setting, and includes a significant educational component. The University's forward-looking perspective included a deep interest in the legacy they were leaving for the campus and society.

Mary Ann Cofrin Hall has significant public exposure, allowing for the demonstration of PV technology to 5,800 students and employees of the University as well as hundreds of local school children who regularly visit the Green Bay campus. Construction of the building provided training for Wisconsin architects, engineers, and commercial building trades. Also, the roofers, glass installers, and electricians who were chosen to perform the actual installation received first-hand experience with BIPV technology.

Unlike most retrofit rooftop photovoltaic systems which are not visible from the ground, Mary Ann Cofrin Hall allows people to view the BIPV system from inside and outside the building. Viewing photovoltaics from inside the building is completely unique. And, the effect on building users of being able to actually view the energy generation in its silent, still and environmentally-benign manner, is dramatic.

To ensure attention is drawn to what's happening overhead, an electronic information kiosk, located in the Wintergarden, provides information on the BIPV system. In addition to the educational benefits of having the BIPV system on a college campus, the University will receive approximately 27,500 kWh per year, saving the State of Wisconsin an estimated $1,700 in annual electrical energy costs.

The BIPV system also provides significant air quality benefits since it does not use coal burned at fossil-fueled power plants when generating its necessary energy support. The burning of coal creates several air emissions, including those that contribute to global warming (Carbon Dioxide), acid rain (Sulfur Dioxide), smog (Nitrogen Oxides), and respiratory problems. The table outlines the estimated annual emission benefits provided by the BIPV system.

Typical Fossil Fuel Emissions Annual Savings Using BIPV Savings Equivalent

Coal 42,000 lbs.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) 74,000 lbs.           CO2 absorbed by 620 mature trees per year.

Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) 340 lbs.           Acid rain falling over 205 acres in Brown County in one year.

Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) 400 lbs.           NOx produced by driving 1,100 SUV's from New York to Los Angeles

Particulates 13 lbs.