Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) refers to using photovoltaic (PV) technology as a component of a building’s envelope rather than as a separate technology added to the building’s exterior. Because BIPV is integrated into the building itself, it can help to reduce the amount of energy that a building consumes from the grid, which in turn can help to reduce its carbon footprint.
BIPV vs BAPV
We can distinguish between integrated and building applied photovoltaics (BAPV), which are the more common method of adding panels to existing structures. Applied PV is more suited to and cost effective for retrofits, while integrated PV has its own advantages but is more applicable for new builds or being implemented during construction work.
The main benefit of either kind of PV on the building is generating free, clean energy on site, where it can be used most efficiently without transmission losses and contribute to a more sustainable future by displacing the need for fossil fuels.
BIPV IN PARTICULAR HAS CERTAIN PROS:
Cost Effectiveness
Integrated photovoltaics serve the function of the traditional building material they are replacing (eg cladding or roof tiles), meaning you save on buying those materials but do pay extra for the PV components and electrical installation. The system does of course generate free electricity, which gives its return on investment. Some types of BIPV, such as solar glass, also bring additional savings through their insulating properties.
Design
By weaving PV into the design of the building, you can add architectural interest through striking solar glass or shading structures. You also have a lot more flexibility in the design, since the panels can be manufactured and installed to be as discreet as possible, or built as their own design feature that highlights a commitment to sustainability.
TYPES OF BIPV
Solar Facades
Many large multi-storey buildings install curtain walling or facades to improve energy efficiency or appearance. BIPV facades can fulfill this purpose with the added impact of free, clean electricity. While they can be constructed from crystalline panels, thin film solar is generally used for its superior performance at vertical angles and in shade - since the sides of tall buildings are generally vertical and shaded at times.
The multilayered materials in BIPV also enable it to offer noise insulation when used as a building covering.
Solar Glass Sunroom
Currently, in order to solve the problem of direct sunlight in some families, more and more people are choosing to build a sunroom on the terrace or roof, which not only provides sunshade and rain protection, but also increases the use space of the house. However, the solar glass sunroom perfectly combines the sunroom and photovoltaics. It can not only resist solar radiation pecfectly, but also rely on solar energy to generate electricity. The use of green energy is both energy-saving and environmentally friendly and reduces carbon emissions.
Solar Tiles
If the appearance of traditional panels is off-putting, then solar tiles may be the way to go. PV units that emulate regular roof tiles are a developing area, but there are already some impressive products available. When the whole roof is fitted with PV or dummy tiles, you can’t tell the difference. Complete solar roof extends the idea of integrated panels, you can forgo traditional roof covering entirely and have a complete solar roof. With specially designed modules, panels can be fitted across the whole roof area, with dummy panels used in places where generation isn’t feasible (eg shaded or north-facing parts).
Solar Shading
In order to reduce the intensity of sunlight hitting a building, freestanding or integrated shading structures come into play. These can of course be combined with PV to offer solar shading, while generating solar power. Solar carports offer another opportunity to install rooftop solar, for additional power generation or where the main roof isn't suitable. When building a new solar carport, generally you have a bit more flexibility for choosing optimal roof orientation and angle. As we move towards a world where we’re all driving EVs, it makes sense to combine sheltering vehicles with charging them.
SOLAR GLASS (Cadmium Telluride)
Replace traditional glazing with solar glass to generate electricity where roof space is limited, which is often the case with multi-storey buildings. Solar windows and skylights can be made fully opaque or up to 50% transparent, in a variety of colours.
Besides energy generation, solar glass has the benefits of reducing glare and improving temperature insulation - both of which are vital in large office buildings. PV glazing reflects infrared light, reducing heat transfer through the glass. This helps keep heat out during summer and in during winter, resulting in a more consistent internal temperature - a need for which offices often use low emissivity glass.
Coloured panels can be made for a particular aesthetic or to match existing buildings. Standard colours are blue/black for crystalline and brown/black for thin film, but layers of coloured laminate or glass can be used to achieve alternative colours. Colouring the modules does result in a 5% decrease in output.
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