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Title Newness Touches Conventional History: The Research of the Photovoltaic Technology on a Wooden Church Heritage Building
ID_Doc 81
Authors Nina-Cristina, D; Agachi, MIM; Balan, M
Published 5Th World Multidisciplinary Civil Engineering-Architecture-Urban Planning Symposium (Wmcaus), 960,
Structure
Abstract

The article "Newness Touches Conventional History: The Research of the Photovoltaic Technology on a Wooden Church Heritage Building" presents a study on the restoration of a wooden church heritage building in Romania using photovoltaic technology. The study aims to explore the possibilities of integrating photovoltaic systems into traditional heritage buildings, while preserving their historical and cultural significance.

Introduction

The article begins by introducing the case study of a Transylvanian wooden church from Cojocna, Cluj county, Romania. The original design of the church assumed ICOMOS's charters and the recommendations from this area in quality design. The restoration work is not focused on energy efficiency, but rather on preserving the historical values and essential elements of the building.

Identity vs. Sustainability

The article discusses the tension between preserving the historical identity of the building and incorporating sustainable technologies, such as photovoltaic systems. The first design version aims to preserve the traditional wooden shingle roof, while the second design version proposes replacing it with PV solar roof tiles. The article explores the strengths and weaknesses of each design version, including the preservation of identity, sustainability, and the potential for community engagement.

Results and Discussions

The article presents the results of a preliminary investigation into the electrical energy production of the PV system. The study used software developed by the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca to calculate the solar position, angles, and energies. The results show that the PV electricity production under shading conditions represents about 40% of the estimated PV electricity production without shading.

Conclusion

The article concludes that the integration of photovoltaic systems into traditional heritage buildings can be a viable solution for sustainable development. However, it also highlights the need to preserve the historical identity of the building and to engage with the local community. The study provides a framework for evaluating the potential of photovoltaic systems in heritage buildings and suggests that the design of such systems should be based on a holistic approach that considers the building's cultural, historical, and environmental significance.

Key Findings


* The first design version aims to preserve the traditional wooden shingle roof, while the second design version proposes replacing it with PV solar roof tiles.
* The PV electricity production under shading conditions represents about 40% of the estimated PV electricity production without shading.
* The study highlights the tension between preserving the historical identity of the building and incorporating sustainable technologies.
* The integration of photovoltaic systems into traditional heritage buildings can be a viable solution for sustainable development.
* The design of such systems should be based on a holistic approach that considers the building's cultural, historical, and environmental significance.
Summary The research focuses on the restoration of a Transylvanian wooden church from Cojocna, Cluj county, Romania, with the aim of preserving its historical values and introducing sustainable design elements. The original design follows ICOMOS's charters and the recommendation from the area in quality design, but the restoration work does not need to achieve any form of energy efficiency. The study explores two design versions: the first version preserves the original wooden shingle roof and the second version replaces it with PV solar roof tiles. The numerical values for electrical energy produced with photovoltaic technology are evaluated using homemade software validated by comparison with dedicated software (PHPP_V9.6; PVsyst 6.8.6). The results show that the PV electricity production under shading conditions represents about 40% of the estimated PV electricity production of the corresponding surfaces without shading. The second design version is considered a "transition design" between green/sustainable design and "designing regenerative culture." However, the lack of visual concordance between the old picture and the new one could create opportune disagreements, and the actual cost of PV technology is a significant concern. The research highlights the importance of adapting to changing world needs and considering the evolution of building parts in the context of technological revolution. The study concludes that the regenerative design could support a regenerative culture, but never without the identity represented by heritage buildings.
Scientific Methods Based on the provided article, it appears that the research methods used in this study are primarily qualitative and quantitative in nature. Here's a breakdown of the research methods used:

Qualitative methods:


1. Literature review: The authors conducted a thorough review of existing literature on photovoltaic technology, sustainability, and heritage architecture to provide a foundation for their research.
2. Expert interviews: The authors consulted with experts in various fields, including architecture, restoration, and sustainability, to gather insights and validate their research.
3. Historical survey: The authors conducted a historical survey of the wooden church in Cojocna, Romania, to understand its design, architecture, and cultural significance.
4. Theoretical analysis: The authors analyzed various theoretical concepts related to sustainability, regenerative design, and heritage architecture to inform their research.

Quantitative methods:


1. Mathematical modeling: The authors developed a mathematical model to evaluate the energy production of the PV solar roof tiles, using software such as PVsyst and PHPP.
2. Simulation: The authors conducted simulations to assess the energy production of the PV solar roof tiles under different conditions, including shading.
3. Data analysis: The authors analyzed the data generated by their mathematical model and simulations to draw conclusions about the energy production of the PV solar roof tiles.

Other methods:


1. SWOT analysis: The authors conducted a SWOT analysis to evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of the two design versions (the first and second versions).
2. Comparative analysis: The authors compared the results of their mathematical model and simulations with commercial software to validate their findings.

Overall, the research methods used in this study are a combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches, which provide a comprehensive understanding of the energy production of PV solar roof tiles in a heritage building context.
Article contribution The article discusses the application of photovoltaic (PV) technology in a restored wooden church heritage building in Romania. The researchers aimed to assess the potential of PV technology in a heritage building context, focusing on the balance between preservation of the original building and the incorporation of new technologies.

Contribution to Regenerative Economics:


1.
Sustainable Design:
The study demonstrates the feasibility of integrating PV technology into heritage buildings, promoting sustainable design and energy production. This aligns with the principles of regenerative economics, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of natural and social systems.
2.
Preservation of Heritage:
The research highlights the importance of preserving heritage buildings while incorporating innovative technologies. This approach supports regenerative economics by recognizing the value of cultural and natural heritage while promoting sustainable development.
3.
Community Engagement:
The study involves local communities in the design and implementation of the PV system, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility. This community engagement aspect is crucial for regenerative economics, which emphasizes the importance of social and environmental relationships.
4.
Economic Benefits:
The study estimates the potential economic benefits of the PV system, including energy savings and reduced maintenance costs. These benefits can be applied to regenerative economics, which aims to create a more equitable and sustainable economic system.
5.
Regenerative Culture:
The research touches on the concept of regenerative culture, which is a key aspect of regenerative economics. By integrating PV technology into a heritage building, the study promotes a culture of sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Methodological Contributions:


1.
Integrated Design:
The study demonstrates the potential of integrated design approaches, which combine technical, social, and environmental considerations. This methodology is essential for regenerative economics, which requires a holistic understanding of the relationships between natural and social systems.
2.
Scenario-Based Analysis:
The researchers employ scenario-based analysis to evaluate the potential of the PV system. This methodology is useful for regenerative economics, which often involves exploring alternative scenarios and futures.

Limitations and Future Research Directions:


1.
Scalability:
The study focuses on a single heritage building, and further research is needed to evaluate the scalability of the PV system in different contexts.
2.
Social and Economic Factors:
The study overlooks social and economic factors that may influence the adoption of PV technology in heritage buildings. Future research should address these factors to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the impact of regenerative design on local communities and economies.
3.
Long-Term Impacts:
The study primarily focuses on the short-term benefits of the PV system. Future research should explore the long-term impacts of regenerative design on heritage buildings and their surrounding communities.

Overall, the article contributes to the discussion on regenerative economics by exploring the potential of PV technology in heritage buildings. The study demonstrates the importance of integrated design approaches, community engagement, and economic benefits, while highlighting the need for further research on scalability, social and economic factors, and long-term impacts.

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