The development of zero-energy buildings (ZEBs) is essential for sustainable urban design, with photovoltaics (PVs) playing a crucial role.

This analysis focused on advanced PV technologies with integrated cooling techniques, including radiative PV cells, externally finned PVs, and phase-change materials (PCMs). 

Evaluations were conducted for two building types: B1, a five-story building, and B2, a two-story building, in Athens, Barcelona, Munich, and Stockholm. Most cases achieved ZEB status using roof PVs, but B1 buildings in Munich and Stockholm required additional building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPVs).

A significant electricity surplus was noted in warmer locations, with externally finned PVs proving most effective, followed by radiative cooling, while PCMs were beneficial only in hot climates.