BIPV

The “morphing skin” would track sunlight and have the flexibility and surface area to wrap across large surfaces, such as buildings and stadiums.

Izpitek is launching a new product line using patented tech to embed PV cells in composites, cutting weight by up to 95%.

Researchers from Aalto University in Finland demonstrated a proof-of-concept of laser-processed glass to be used as a type of solar concentrator for building integrated PV (BIPV) applications. The treated glass enabled a 55-fold increase in photocurrent generation compared to unprocessed glass, with an estimated optical efficiency of 0.66 %. Additionally, a fluoropolymer coating was applied to create a self-cleaning surface.

Researchers in Spain have designed a PV window that performs active daylighting management while producing electricity. The system can reportedly ensure high power density, as it harvests all the direct light incident on the aperture area.

As the global transition toward sustainable energy intensifies, building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) has emerged as a critical innovation in merging renewable energy with architectural design. The recently published guidebook “Building-Integrated Photovoltaics: A Technical Guidebook,” edited by IEA PVPS Task 15 experts Nuria Martín Chivelet, Costa Kapsis, and Francesco Frontini, offers a comprehensive resource for architects, engineers, and urban planners looking to integrate BIPV into the built environment. This article explores the book’s key insights, including applications, challenges, and future pathways.

To make it easier to adopt building integrated PV (BIPV) as a glazing material, a group within the IEA Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme (IEA-PVPS) has tackled the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) calculation for BIPV. It is part of IEA PVPS Task 15 international standardization efforts.

Taking inspiration from the 3D photonic structures on a Morpho butterfly’s shimmering blue wings, scientists at Germany’s Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE have developed colored solar panels that can be incorporated into a building’s exterior practically invisibly while maintaining high efficiency.

The Chinese manufacturer said its new flexible modules have an efficiency of up to 20.1% and a weight of only 7.5 kg, or 2.92 kg/m2. The new products have purportedly a light transmittance of over 91% and “ultra-high” UV blocking ability.

The Chinese perovskite solar cell and module maker said its custom-designed double-glass perovskite modules measure 1,200 mm x 1,000 mm and achieve a light transmittance of around 40%.

Next Energy said its 101.6 cm x 152.4 cm laminated transparent power-generating windows were produced with its pilot production line.