BIPV

The market for building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) is evolving, necessitating the development of a comprehensive interdisciplinary evaluation methodology. IEA-PVPS Task 15 developed a cross-sectional evaluation tool, designed for architects, developers, and other stakeholders involved in BIPV projects. Through a step-by-step process, this methodology addresses economic, energy-relevant, environmental, and visual performance, providing a robust tool for comparing and optimizing BIPV installations.

Scientists in Norway have assessed how BIPV façades may react to fire accidents following a typical fire test for building façades. They found that flame propagation in the wall cavity is possible, despite the very limited amounts of combustible material, and that flames may propagate on the entire façade very quickly.

Scientists in Switzerland have created a new technique to characterize the color of BIPV panels. The method uses an optical fiber spectrometer to detect color characterization signals.

A group of companies and research institutes are developing tools, technologies, and methods in a four-year project to promote building-integrated PV (BIPV), with the goal of clearing the path for mass deployment. 

Scientists have assessed the performance of Italy’s first publicly funded BIPV project, which was installed in 2001. Their analysis shows that only one of the 10%-efficient panels in the 11 kW array experienced a severe fault that caused the complete loss of functionality.

Profils Systèmes, a French aluminum carpentry specialist, has developed Wallis&Energy, a new solar veranda that is designed to integrate seamlessly into existing buildings and new structures.

Switzerland’s Climacy has released its Smart Solar Roof solution, with a special mounting system attached to the backside of the solar panels. It features 430 W TOPCon solar modules with an efficiency of 22.5%.

Italian researchers have outlined a four-step method to assess the technical feasibility of building-integrated PV (BIPV) projects in historical buildings. They applied the proposed approach to a courtyard building from the 16th century in the historical Italian town of Marcianise.

Imec has successfully integrated silicon heterojunction PV cells into curved surfaces, resulting in a 6% efficiency increase compared to passivated emitter and rear contact (PERC) half cells. The cells are suitable for applications in vehicle-integrated and building-integrated PV (BIPV).

A Swiss company has developed adhesive film that can be applied on solar panels to make them more aesthetically appealing. The film reduces electricity production by between 10% and 30%, but income from advertising could offset such losses.