1st IEA PVPS Task 15 Blind Modelling Intercomparison

Task 15 is organizing this first modelling intercomparison for BIPV systems to provide an opportunity for PV modelers to test their abilities and methods using real-world data – as well as quantify variability between different models and modelers. Measured irradiance and weather data is provided for a full year alongside system information for two BIPV installations featuring different coloured modules. Participants are asked to simulate electrical power, operating temperature, and compute loss factors and submit their results for comparative analysis. Results of this analysis are planned to be published in an anonymized manner, with attribution of all interested participants. 

Systems

The first system with data provided by Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB) consists of 63 blue-coloured CIGS modules across a two-story façade, connected in 9 strings to a single inverter. The ventilation gap behind the modules varies between 50 mm for 4 strings and 150 mm for the remaining 5 strings, providing slightly different operating conditions. The focus in this system lies on the full system performance as well as the influence of mounting configurations on modelling accuracy. 

The second system with data provided by the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) consists of 6 differently coloured modules in a west-facing façade, each connected to a power optimizer. For these modules, detailed optical data (EQE, spectral reflectance, IAM) is provided, to allow for an evaluation of the modelling accuracy of losses specific to coloured BIPV. 

Instructions

A link to the dataset, detailed system information and modelling instructions will be provided on this page in the beginning of October. After modelling the system, participants are asked to copy their results in the provided template and submit them via email to Markus Babin (marbab@dtu.dk). Deadline for submissions is February 1st 2026. In case of questions concerning the instructions or the activity in general, please send them via email to marbab@dtu.dk. The list of questions and answers will be made available to all participants via a FAQ.