Novel way to turn semi-finished thin-film solar modules into colored BIPV panels
German scientists have developed a way to cut semi-fabricates into desired shapes and then apply a conductive oxide-metal-oxide electrode with the preferred color. They can structure the elements into modules via the backend interconnection process.
BIPV facade for new exhibition space in Switzerland
Switzerland-based Novartis has deployed a 36 kW building-integrated PV facade on its new exhibition center in Basel. The system features 10,680 organic PV modules from France’s Asca.
Seoul launches BIPV incentive scheme
The Seoul Metropolitan Government has revealed that it will subsidize building-integrated photovoltaic projects through a new rebate scheme.
Perovskite microcells for solar windows
Developed by Korean scientists through a novel lift-off-based patterning approach based on swelling-induced crack propagation, the perovskite PV device achieved an open-circuit voltage of 1.16 V, a short-circuit current density of 22.5 mA/cm2, and a fill factor of 77%. With the microcells, the researchers also built a first prototype of a solar window which they claim has vivid colors and high color purity.
Canadian university to be equipped with a stealthy solar façade/microgrid
Building-integrated photovoltaics provider Mitrex said its system will provide St. Mary’s University student residence with a power-producing microgrid.
Glass-integrated BIPV module from Japan
Japanese glass manufacturer AGC has developed a building-integrated PV (BIPV) panel for different building requirements. It can be installed on facades, canopies, and curtain walls where normal glass can be placed.
Designs, control strategies for PV-integrated shading devices
Photovoltaic shades in buildings offer energy efficiency and electricity generation, but an international research group says their commercial viability will depend on the control strategies used to optimize performance.
Hungarian start-up launches solar tile with output of 167W per m²
Developed by Hungarian manufacturer Terràn, the Generon solar tile is based on concrete support and weighs is in at 5.7kg.
France provides incentives to landscape-integrated BIPV
The French authorities have so far selected four BIPV products that are eligible for the incentive scheme.
Novel power electronic converter for BIPV
Conceived by researchers in Estonia, the device is claimed to be compatible with both crystalline silicon and thin-film BIPV panels and to manage, easily, different voltage levels. It can be applied either in solar facades or BIPV rooftop arrays.
