Jun. 05, 2025
The integration of solar energy into architectural design has paved the way for innovative solutions like Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV). This technology not only harnesses renewable energy but also enhances the aesthetics of modern buildings. In this detailed blog, we will explore the concept of BIPV, its benefits, applications, and the future of sustainable building design.
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Building-integrated photovoltaics, are solar components that not only produce electricity but also provide traditional purposes including thermal insulation, weatherproofing, and architectural purposes. Throughout their existence, these multifunctional active building components can achieve a better ecological and economic balance than traditional construction parts. They also give building owners the chance to adhere to ever stricter energy-related regulations. Visually pleasing power systems can be integrated into both urban and rural landscapes and significantly contribute to the energy transition when they have PV modules integrated into their roofs and façades through architectural integration. For bespoke BIPV components, it is advantageous to utilize a local manufacturer close to the end user.
A PV module serves as the fundamental building block of BIPV technology. A module is made up of constructed solar cells, and an array tailored to a particular site is created by wiring modules together. Solar energy is captured by BIPV systems and transformed into heat and electricity. Direct current (DC) appliances can be powered by the electricity produced by BIPV, or it can be stored in batteries.
The output of PV systems is either connected to inverters or transformed into alternating current (AC) electricity for use in other applications or a connection to the utility grid.A balance-of-system (BOS) is a term used to describe the additional parts of the BIPV system, which include the inverter, switches, controls, meters, power conditioning equipment, wiring, supporting structure, and storage components.
One of the most significant benefits of BIPV systems is their ability to generate clean, renewable energy directly from the building’s structure. By integrating photovoltaic cells into roofs, facades, windows, and other elements, buildings can produce electricity to power their operations, reducing the need for external energy sources and lowering overall energy consumption.
Unlike traditional solar panels, which can be visually disruptive, BIPV materials are incorporated directly into the building’s architecture.
While the initial installation of BIPV may be higher than standard photovoltaic systems, the long-term cost benefits are considerable. By replacing traditional building materials with photovoltaic materials, developers can save on construction costs while generating energy for the building.
BIPV systems help reduce the carbon footprint of buildings by generating renewable energy on-site. This decreases the reliance on fossil fuels and supports global efforts to combat climate change.
One of the primary challenges with traditional solar panel installations is the need for dedicated rooftop space. With BIPV, the building envelope itself becomes the solar energy generator, maximizing available surface areas like walls, windows, and skylights.
BIPV components are designed to withstand environmental factors, such as wind, rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. In addition to their energy-generating capabilities, they function as conventional building materials, providing weather resistance and structural support.
BIPV offers building owners the opportunity to achieve energy independence by generating power directly from the building’s structure. This can be especially important in areas with unreliable grid infrastructure or in remote locations.
The use of PV in roofing systems can provide a direct replacement for batten and seam metal roofing, traditional 3-tab asphalt shingles, and ceramic tiles. Note that these types of installations require adequate ventilation to keep the cell temperatures cooler.
Solar cells can complement or replace traditional view windows or spandrel glass. While these installations are on vertical surfaces, which reduce the intensity of the solar insolation, the overall size of a facade can help compensate for the reduced power per unit area.
Using PV for skylight systems can be both an economical use of PV and an interesting design feature. Just as with PV windows, the semi-transparency enables visual connections to the exterior environment while providing diffuse natural lighting.
Photovoltaics may be incorporated into awnings or slightly sloped, saw-tooth canopy designs. Semi-transparent modules provide filtered sunlight underneath while affording additional architectural benefits such as passive shading.
BIPV systems can be applied across various sectors, including:
Homeowners are increasingly adopting BIPV for energy savings and environmental benefits. BIPV systems are commonly integrated into homes, offering homeowners the ability to generate renewable energy while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
Large-scale commercial properties such as office buildings and shopping centers use BIPV to meet sustainability targets. Many commercial properties are adopting BIPV solutions to meet sustainability goals and reduce operational costs.
Government buildings, schools, and hospitals are incorporating BIPV to reduce energy costs and showcase environmental leadership.
BIPV plays a significant role in sustainable urban development, contributing to energy generation in densely populated areas.
The design of a BIPV module must balance aesthetics with maximizing electricity generation at a reasonable cost. While aesthetic preferences can be adjusted to improve power output or reduce costs, a strong understanding of the technical design options for various module components is essential. This section offers a general overview of these components and explores ways to achieve aesthetic designs beyond the standard module layout.
PV modules consist of a solar cell layer, encapsulated between two layers, with a front and rear cover, often called a laminate. Standard modules include a frame for mounting and a junction box for electrical connections, which contains bypass diodes. In some cases, the junction box is omitted in device-integrated PV systems, and bypass diodes are integrated into the laminate. BIPV modules use more complex mounting systems for mechanical connection and stability, often for aesthetic reasons. Mounting systems can also provide insulation, ventilation, or cooling and may replace or partially replace the rear cover.
Curved modules are mainly used in vehicles but have some BIPV applications. Strong curvature may require smaller cells and can reduce power output due to uneven solar irradiation on the cells. Using separate impermeable cover layers is more cost-effective, as they protect against humidity, UV light, and mechanical stress.
PV module covers, for both the front and rear, can be made from different materials (e.g., glass front, polymer rear) and consist of external surfaces, bulk materials, and internal surfaces. These surfaces can be structured, coated, or finished for functional or aesthetic purposes. Coatings include sputtered, enamel, printed, varnish, and lacquer, which can reduce glare and improve reflection. Diffusing textures can further control glare without reducing transmission for electricity generation.
Rear covers can range from polymer films to complete glazing units. Functional coatings, like anti-reflective layers, are typically applied externally, while aesthetic coatings are internal for protection. Glass is the most common bulk material, offering transparency, stability, and durability, especially for BIPV modules, which often use laminated safety glass. Polymers, composites, and even metal layers are alternatives, especially for lightweight applications, with glass fibers combining stiffness with reduced weight. Additives in materials can enhance reflectance, color, or durability.
The embedding material in a solar module creates an airtight seal around the solar cells and adheres them to the cover material. It must accommodate different thermal expansion rates of materials while maintaining durability over the module’s lifespan. Common embedding materials include ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and polyvinyl butyral (PVB), with EVA being widely used for its low cost and PVB common in BIPV applications. Alternative methods, like casting resins or gases, are also used for embedding.
Additives can enhance the material’s UV stability or speed up processing, while aesthetic options include light-scattering particles or pigments to create color without reducing transparency. Additional interlayers, like colored nets, can be embedded to influence color, light diffusion, or reflection.
The PV cell layer significantly influences the electricity yield, service life, and appearance of solar modules. There are two main categories of cell technologies: wafer-based (like crystalline silicon and tandem solar cells) and thin-film technologies (such as amorphous silicon, chalcogenide, organic, and perovskite solar cells). While thin-film technologies offer a uniform aesthetic, their market share is lower than that of crystalline silicon and is declining, limiting advancements in BIPV applications.
Current research focuses on various solar cell concepts, including amorphous silicon and tandem cells, but many are still academic or lack manufacturers for BIPV. The most commercially viable option currently is perovskite on silicon solar cells, which shows promise for future BIPV applications.
Indira Paryavaran Bhawan, home to India’s Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, is a notable example of BIPV, being the country’s first net-zero energy building. It has an annual energy consumption of 14.21 lakh kWh, balanced by on-site solar BIPV generation of 14.3 lakh kWh. The building not only produces sufficient renewable energy to meet its needs but also showcases the Indian government’s commitment to sustainable construction. Its design minimizes solar heat gain and improves energy efficiency while integrating solar panels into its facade and rooftops.
Suzlon Energy Limited’s headquarters, One Earth in Pune, is a notable example of sustainable architecture. It is LEED Platinum-rated and employs BIPV technology along with other renewable resources for its energy needs. The building features 128 BIPV panels, each with a capacity of 105 watts, totaling 13.44 kW. By integrating solar panels into its structure, One Earth achieves self-sustainability, serving as an excellent model for corporate offices adopting this technology.
Another notable example of using solar power, including BIPV systems, is the international airport of Hyderabad. This project is part of a larger plan within Indian airports to adopt greener technologies and reduce operational carbon footprints.
The Centre for Nano Science and Engineering (CeNSE) at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bangalore exemplifies the use of BIPV technology. This building not only integrates solar panels for energy generation but also functions as a research facility focused on developing new BIPV technologies. It represents a harmonious blend of architectural design, sustainability, and academic research.
The Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, a key hub in Eastern India, utilizes BIPV to minimize its environmental impact. By installing solar panels on its roofs, the airport meets significant energy demands while reducing its carbon footprint. This initiative highlights the effective use of renewable energy technologies in large public infrastructures.
In , U-Solar Clean Energy Solutions Pvt. Ltd. installed India’s largest BIPV system on this data center, covering over 50,000 square feet of facade area with a capacity of about 1 MW.
The vertical building-integrated solar power (BIPV) system is estimated to prevent CO2 emissions equivalent to almost 7,000 trees per year.
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Indian Railways and Central Electronics Limited have launched India’s first BIPV Solar Power Platform at Sahibabad Railway Station, featuring a 729 kW capacity powered by 1,620 high-efficiency solar panels. The growing adoption of BIPV technology across various sectors—government buildings, airports, educational institutions, and corporate headquarters—indicates a significant rise in its use as a sustainable energy generation and architectural design solution in the coming years.
Despite its numerous benefits, BIPV adoption faces several challenges, including:
Governments worldwide are recognizing the importance of renewable energy in achieving sustainability goals. Many offer incentives such as tax credits, grants, and subsidies for Building-integrated photovoltaics installations. For instance, the European Union’s Renewable Energy Directive promotes the integration of renewable energy sources in new construction projects, supporting the growth of BIPV.
The future of Building-Integrated Photovoltaics looks promising as technological advancements continue to drive down costs and improve efficiency. Innovations in materials, such as perovskite solar cells and organic photovoltaics, hold the potential to make Building-Integrated Photovoltaics even more accessible and versatile. With growing awareness of climate change and the need for sustainable building practices, Building-integrated photovoltaics is set to play a key role in the future of architecture and energy generation.
Building-integrated photovoltaics represents the convergence of design, technology, and sustainability. As more developers and architects embrace renewable energy solutions, Building-Integrated Photovoltaics offers an opportunity to create energy-efficient buildings without compromising aesthetics. The shift toward integrating solar energy into the very fabric of architecture marks a significant step forward in achieving global sustainability goals.
Incorporating Building-Integrated Photovoltaics into construction projects not only enhances energy efficiency but also positions buildings at the forefront of green innovation. With ongoing advancements and government support, the future of Building-Integrated Photovoltaics promises to transform the landscape of modern architecture, one building at a time.
Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) is a rising technology with great potential for reducing the carbon footprint and electricity bill of a building. BIPV represents financial benefits for the building, but it also means a high upfront cost surpassing that of traditional façade.
Cost is one of the most important factors to consider in BIPV systems. In this article, we break down the cost for the hardware and soft costs of a BIPV installation, analyze operation & maintenance costs, and even provide you with extra recommendations to reduce cost and increase gains at a building with a BIPV.
Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) is a technology that provides buildings with the ability to generate solar power without disrupting the aesthetic of the architectural design. The technology integrates photovoltaic (PV) modules into the skin of a building, replacing the façade and pitched/flat/curved roofs.
Some BIPV applications include metal PV modules or solar shingles for the roof, customized sized PV modules with aesthetic design for the solar façade, photovoltaic windows replacing glazing and PV skylights for the building, and other adaptations of PV that integrate into the skin of the building.
Average price for an EU BIPV glass glass module is 120-250€/m2. From as low as 95€/m2 to as much as 380€/m2.
On a general basis, the cost for most BIPV products can be found in price range going from 200€/m2 – 625€/m2. The overall cost for a BIPV system can be broken down into two categories: hardware and soft costs. In this section, we will explain the breakdown cost for each category and subcategory.
The hardware costs of a BIPV system include tangible (hardware) structural and electrical components required for the system and installation. This category is subdivided into two: BIPV modules and Balance of System (BOS).
The cost for PV modules represents around 43% to 77% of the PV system cost. The major aspect varying the cost is the technology used for the BIPV modules. The average price for an European BIPV glass glass module rounds about 120-250€/m2, whereas the minimum price for standard European glass-glass module can be as low as 95€/m2. But if you are looking for a one-of-a-kind result for solar exterior customization, the price can go up to as much as 380€/m2.
The Balance of System (BOS) category includes hardware components that do not fall under the BIPV module category, meaning inverters, mounting components, storage systems, and other hardware required for the installation. BOS components take on average 10% to 16% of the BIPV installation cost, but the cost for BOS components might increase for installation with a high level of complexity.
The inverter is a very important component in the BIPV installation. The cost depends on the technology chosen, varying between central inverters (0.13€/W), string inverters (0.17€/W), or micro-inverters (0.35€/W).
The cost for storage systems is another expensive yet important BOS component. The most recommend technology is Lithium-Ion, which costs around 534€/kWh, but it is estimated that the price will be reduced to 202€/W by .
Other BOS components include charge controllers, meters, cables, AC/DC isolators, and others. There is little cost research about these components for BIPV systems. Depending on the mounting hardware technology and quality, the price could be reduced for low requirement installations or increased on the contrary case.
Soft costs include any expense that does not translate as a hardware component. Soft costs are divided into the following categories: design, procurement, construction & installation, permit, inspection, interconnection (PII), and disposal. These costs are highly site-specific and vary a lot depending on the country. In this section, we explain each of them.
The proper design of a BIPV system is the first stage of the process, which is one of the first costs to consider. Design costs include doing the site survey, making preliminary designs, preparing reports, and other tasks required to design the system. For instance, a study case of an 11KW Polycrystalline BIPV roofing system in Italy had a design costing 0.29€/W.
Procurement costs involved in BIPV systems represent site visits, transportation, contract negotiations, renting storage space for components, and similar expenses in the process. On average one could expect transportation costs for standard solar PV modules 0,5-2%, and for custom solar modules 1.5-8% of PV module cost., but this can vary depending on the region.
Construction & Installation represents an important cost for BIPV systems. While it is hard to estimate its cost across Europe, these expenses include skilled labor, supervision hours, consulting, health & safety contingencies, and other costs related to the construction of infrastructure and installation of the system.
Permit, Inspection, and Interconnection (PII) of a BIPV system represents significant soft costs that vary between countries. PII costs translate as fees required to approve the installation, staff hours to prepare interconnection for the BIPV system to the grid, site inspections, and similar expenses. A study case Germany installation places administrative costs at 0.01€/W and other PII costs at 0.055€/W.
Disposal costs are not always considered during the 30 to 50 lifespan years of a BIPV system. Expenses in this category translate as costs for dismounting, transporting, and disposing of (for recycling) BIPV systems. Since BIPV technology is fairly new and most installations are operating, these costs have not been widely researched.
The estimated cost for a BIPV façade varies depending on the type of BIPV product, with a price ranging from 200€/m2 – 625€/m2, delivering a payback period of 10 – 15 years in Europe, this surpasses non-active facades and regular roofing, especially since these options do not have a return of investment (ROI). Other options include installing roof-integrated thin-film BIPV systems, which cost an average of 134€/m2.
To understand the meaning of these prices, it is important to compare them against the cost of non-active facades. Two important BIPV accessories are solar shadings and solar balconies, which can replace regular balconies and the roof for them. The BIPV balcony costs around 520€/m2, and the solar shading rounds up the 800€/m2.
The price for regular windows varies between 400€/m2 to a little more than 1,000€/m2 and the cost for glazed curtain walls goes from 520€/m2 – 1,120€/m2. Similarly, the cost for facades made out of wood, stone, metal, ceramic, and fibrocement can have prices ranging from around 100€/m2 – 900€/m2. Meanwhile, the BIPV cold facades replacing most of those options, costs between 120€/m2 – 620€/m2.
On the other hand, as can be seen in figure 3, the cost for conventional roofing is much lower when compared to BIPV roofing options. Some conventional roofing materials like metal, ceramic, and concrete tiles, can have prices ranging the 25€/m2 – 100€/m2. More expensive options include thatch roofing and slates which have costs going from 100€/m2 – 175€/m2.
It is true that the upfront investment required for BIPV facades and roofing, tends to be much higher than for non-active options, but it is important to also look at the revenues. During 30 years, a BIPV system costing around 450€/m2 could have a ROI of 15 years and produce savings of 450€/m2 for remaining 15 years of the systems lifespan. Where solar roofing ROI can reach approximately 8-12 years of payback time. Considering that non-active facades and regular roofing produce 0€/, the most wise investment is clearly using BIPV technology.
Operation & Maintenance (O&M) costs include hardware and soft costs, which is why we place this category separate from the rest. O&M costs for BIPV include monitoring the system, repairing components, and other costs arising due to unforeseen situations like vandalism, fires, extreme weather events, and others.
O&M costs are estimated at 0.5% of the initial investment, but this considers ideal circumstances with regular maintenance and operability. O&M costs differ when mainstream PV power plants, BIPV or rooftop (BAPV or solar roof tiles) are taken into consideration. In cases, where O&M software is being used the efficiency and yield of such solar plants increases greatly. Let alone the fact, that maintenance work is triggered only when such software indicates the demand for such services, this concludes in lowering overall O&M costs.
Another cost to be considered is the regular replacement of the inverter, which is performed every 15 years and represents a cost of 10% of the initial investment.
Installing a BIPV system in Europe, costs in average 200€/m2 to 625€/m2, delivering a ROI of 10 to 15 years. Depending on the cost for electricity, the final cost for the installation, location of PV plant and a few other factors, the payback time time for BIPV can be reach 6 years. A BIPV system does not only represent a source of power to reduce electricity costs for the building, but it also represent a source of income.
With the information in this article, you can understand better the upfront cost investment for a BIPV system, and every other aspect involved in the budget. This will provide you with enough information to estimate the cost for a particular system and consider the different aspects of the installation.
By using our considerations when designing a BIPV building, you will reduce BIPV costs and increase gains to the maximum. This will make the BIPV system even more profitable, and it might even provide it with a longer lifespan.
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