The integration of photovoltaics within high rise buildings in the dense urban environments of SE Asia, consideration of legislation to promote it and to maintain solar energy access

The consensus of the '92 Rio summit was that all development should aim for sustainable development. The major growth region for the next decade is SE Asia, particularly the cities of South China for which Hong Kong is a role model. Current buildings are heavily dependent on air-conditioning while planning legislation plus cost factors have inhibited the use of external shading devices and building codes have failed to introduce comprehensive integrated standards for energy conservation. Photovoltaics are a renewable energy resource without harmful effects on the environment. The technology is maturing and high efficiency low-cost cells starting in commercial production. Opportunities exist for photovoltaic arrays as shading and cladding panels in high-rise construction. Hong Kong's solar radiation has been analysed, and the power potential of photovoltaic cladding and shading of a commercial building simulated. A 12 month study of photovoltaics has been set up to monitor real values in the urban context. Changes in present energy generation strategies are discussed, through NFFO and DSM, to assist the take-up of photovoltaics in buildings as well as the need for legislation to maintain solar access.