Introduction to Urban Photovoltaics (UPV)
摘要
Cities are often described as mankind’s greatest invention because they are the engines of innovation and creativity, economic growth, and cultural exchange. For many, cities hold the promise of employment opportunities, prosperity, and personal development. This promise has led to the continued growth of urban areas and a globe on which 55% of the world’s population now live in urban areas [6]. This percentage is predicted to rise to 70% by the middle of the century. Furthermore, according to UN Habitat, urban areas are responsible for 75% of the world’s energy consumption and cause 70% of greenhouse gas emissions [2]. Countries such as Switzerland and Singapore are already highly urbanized. The trend toward ever larger urban areas is particularly strong in hot and humid regions in East Asia, Latin America, and Africa [6]. As a result, the future of our energy systems and the future of cities are inextricably intertwined.