Building Integrated Photovoltaics and Energy Sharing for Net-Zero Energy Communities in Social House Neighborhoods

Energy poverty remains a critical challenge globally, particularly affecting low-income neighborhoods and vulnerable populations. Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) offers a promising solution for electricity generation in such neighborhoods by integrating solar energy systems directly into building structures. This study investigates the net-zero energy transition in a Greek social housing neighborhood through BIPV-tailored integration and virtual energy sharing. Detailed analysis revealed substantial solar potential, with rooftop PV capable of meeting approximately 90% of the neighborhood's annual energy demand, achieving a 39% load match. Furthermore, the integration of facade PV systems results in an energy surplus, demonstrating the viability of energy-positive communities. A central battery storage system is proposed to reduce energy imports and enhance the load-matching index to 76%. Policy implications and future research directions are discussed, providing valuable insights for stakeholders involved in sustainable energy transitions.