From energy and cooling systems to multifunctional environmental infrastructure: A decision-support review of photovoltaic-green roofs.

Authors

Magdalena Daria Vaverková, Věra Hubačíková, Martina Urbanová, Bronislava Spáčilová, Anna Podlasek, Eugeniusz Koda, Jan Winkler

Published in

Journal of environmental management. Volume 419. Pages 131282. Nov 01, 2026. Epub Nov 01, 2026.

Abstract

Photovoltaic-green roofs (PV-GRs) are increasingly recognized as an integrated solution for climate-resilient cities because they combine renewable energy generation, evaporative cooling, stormwater retention, biodiversity enhancement, and more efficient use of limited rooftop space. However, existing research often evaluates their energy, hydrological, ecological, material, and operational functions separately. This study provides a structured narrative and critical synthesis of 67 publications, distinguishing direct PV-GR evidence from supporting evidence from related systems. Attention is given to energy performance and thermal processes, including evapotranspirative cooling, radiation balance, PV module temperature reduction, and mitigation of the photovoltaic heat island effect. The review further examines vegetation, substrate properties, stormwater management, biodiversity, design parameters, maintenance, recycled materials, economic considerations, and life cycle performance. Available evidence indicates that PV-GRs can improve PV performance, reduce roof and module temperatures, support vegetation under partially shaded conditions, and provide hydrological, ecological, and microclimatic benefits. However, the magnitude of these benefits depends strongly on climate, system configuration, water availability, vegetation characteristics, substrate properties, and long-term maintenance. From an environmental management perspective, PV-GRs should therefore be regarded not merely as technologies for energy generation and cooling, but as multifunctional infrastructure whose performance should be evaluated through integrated, site-specific decision-support frameworks and against a reference system appropriate to the specific decision question.

PMID:
42967459
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 02 Nov 2026.

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