Engineering Reference
BIPV Energy Modelling Methodology
Reference yields, product electrical specifications, and energy modelling assumptions for Powerglass CdTe BIPV facade systems across Canadian climate zones. Engineer-facing values below are reference inputs for screening and must be confirmed at product submittal.
1. User-supplied inputs
The calculator uses the city, product selection, facade area, traditional facade cost, electricity rate, and cap rate entered by the user. Electricity rate and cap rate are not assumed by Powerglass.
2. Energy generation
Energy yield estimates are based on NRCan RETScreen vertical south-facing facade photovoltaic resource data. The CdTe conversion factor used for the reference model is 0.155 kWp/m². Actual performance varies with facade orientation, shading, soiling, system degradation, and local conditions.
| City | Yield (kWh/m2/yr) |
|---|---|
| Edmonton | 55 |
| Calgary | 60 |
| Saskatoon | 58 |
| Winnipeg | 56 |
| Toronto | 50 |
| Ottawa | 51 |
| Vancouver | 45 |
Yield values assume a vertical south-facing facade with no significant horizon obstruction.
3. Product electrical inputs
The following inputs support early NECB performance-path, LEED EA, and project screening conversations. Final Wp/m², glass makeup, electrical routing, and attachment assumptions are confirmed during submittal for each project.
COM-M1
Opaque spandrel / cladding reference
- Wp/m² at STC
- 156 Wp/m²
- Transparency
- Opaque
- Temperature coefficient
- -0.189%/°C
- Wind load
- 2,400 Pa
- Operating range
- -40°C to +85°C
COM-CA2
Stone-look architectural glass
- Wp/m² at STC
- 104 Wp/m²
- Transparency
- T20-T60
- Temperature coefficient
- -0.189%/°C
- Wind load
- 2,400 Pa
- Operating range
- -40°C to +85°C
COM-S1
Safety glass / railing infill
- Wp/m² at STC
- 141 Wp/m²
- Transparency
- T30-T40
- Temperature coefficient
- -0.189%/°C
- Wind load
- 2,400 Pa
- Operating range
- -40°C to +85°C
COM-Z3
Triple-pane vision glass
- Wp/m² at STC
- Confirm at submittal
- Transparency
- T20-T40
- Temperature coefficient
- -0.189%/°C
- Wind load
- 2,400 Pa
- Operating range
- -40°C to +85°C
COM-CBS1
Designer coloured glass
- Wp/m² at STC
- Confirm at submittal
- Transparency
- T20-T40
- Temperature coefficient
- -0.189%/°C
- Wind load
- 2,400 Pa
- Operating range
- -40°C to +85°C
4. Energy modelling inputs
Public screening uses facade area, city yield, product mix, electricity rate, and the vertical south-facing reference assumption. Project modelling should adjust for actual orientation, shading, module layout, inverter and balance-of-system assumptions, utility tariff, and metering/export rules.
NECB performance path
Facade BIPV generation can be modelled as on-site generation in the performance path. The engineer of record remains responsible for the as-built model and AHJ submission.
LEED EA modelling
Published STC power ratings and temperature coefficients provide inputs for approved energy simulation tools. Final credit treatment depends on the project model and reviewer.
5. Federal ITC
The model applies a 30% Clean Technology Investment Tax Credit (federal Budget 2023) to eligible BIPV project cost. Eligibility can depend on project timing, asset classification, and prevailing wage compliance. Confirm with a qualified tax advisor before relying on any estimate.
6. CCA tax shield
The CCA model uses Class 43.2 accelerated depreciation for clean energy equipment. Year 1 CCA is calculated as (total BIPV investment minus ITC) x 0.25, reflecting the half-year rule.
7. Project economics
Net capital premium, payback, 25-year energy value, and asset-value illustrations are planning estimates only. They are not tax advice, legal advice, investment advice, or a formal appraisal.
8. Source and review cadence
- Yield source: NRCan RETScreen vertical south-facing facade photovoltaic resource data.
- ITC rate last reviewed: June 2026.
- CCA method last reviewed: June 2026.
- Calculator methodology last reviewed: June 2026.
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