Adaptive Kinetic Building Facades with Integrated Photovoltaic Systems as a Strategy for Energy Optimization in the Indian Subcontinent

This study evaluates the performance of adaptive kinetic façades integrated with photovoltaic (PV) systems as a strategy for improving renewable energy generation in India’s diverse climatic conditions. Using a unified simulation workflow developed in Grasshopper and Ladybug Tools, annual energy output for 1 kW static and single-axis kinetic façade PV systems was calculated for five representative cities Delhi, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Leh each corresponding to one of India’s major climatic zones. Results indicate that kinetic tracking enhances PV generation by roughly 21% across all locations, with the most substantial absolute gains occurring in regions characterized by clear skies and strong direct solar radiation. To contextualize these findings, two real-world façade PV projects the Adaptive Solar Facade (ASF) at ETH Zürich and the Ctrl S Data Centre BIPV installation in Mumbai were examined for their operational mechanisms and climatic relevance. While kinetic systems show strong advantages in composite, hot-dry, and cold regions, static façades remain preferable in warm humid and moderate climates where diffuse radiation dominates and maintenance demands are greater. Overall, this research provides climate-responsive guidance for incorporating kinetic BIPV systems into India’s rapidly expanding high-rise urban fabric.