The Future Of Solar: Integrated Photovoltaics In The ...

Danial Hadizadeh, CEO of Mitrex Building Integrated Solar Technology.

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With the move to sustainable living, businesses, investors and governments are looking for the most abundant energy sources to do so effectively. Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) is one of those sources that is becoming a popular trend in the solar world.

What Is BIPV?

BIPV stands for Building Integrated (Mostly Building Envelope) Photovoltaics that replace traditional building materials like glass, siding, roof and the facade with solar integrated materials. This solution is not as common as conventional materials, and yet the potential is significant. The construction industry lacks customization and flexibility with traditional solar solutions, and BIPV materials provide various options and design opportunities.

The solar cells assimilate the sunlight and convert it into usable power through its semi-conductive properties. Nonetheless, a few aspects may influence the energy of the photovoltaic framework and the productivity of the solar cells. Specifically, BIPV has many variables that affect the framework's performance, including the area, height, shade of the modules and direction.

Be sure to conduct a research analysis before purchasing the equipment. Factors to consider are the system's efficiency, performance and operations, identifying the right location for the installation and understanding the technology, the costs, reliability and more. Certain manufacturers can also provide a sunlight generation analysis to verify that the exposure results are enough to ensure the solar efficiency of the building. 

The PV elements are an integral part of the building, serving as the exterior skin. Thus, acting as a dual-purpose module, it is an essential component of the building skin that simultaneously converts solar energy into electricity and provides the building envelope with the ability to function as an insulator, noise and weather mitigator, with additional possibilities.

BIPV systems can be installed during the construction phase of a building or when retrofitting an existing building. The customization options allow for the integration to be applied in many possible ways, such as through solar windows, solar facades and solar roofs. For instance, many companies manufacture solar glass using photovoltaics that may be used in fixed windows, punch windows, curtain walls and more. 

The Challenges

In my opinion, the problem with BIPV solutions is not in the efficiency or effectiveness of the module but its occasional use because many business owners are not familiar with this option and are limited to the old-style solutions. The reason is its recent launch into the industry. It is a relatively new service, and many companies and builders are not aware of its possibilities. 

The challenges that the market has faced are primarily the high cost of this multifunctional system. Most think of BIPV as an expensive, exclusive club option, but in recent years, it has changed to the point that BIPV is being compared to traditional glass, brick or siding materials. This increase in interest due to its functionality has allowed the market for photovoltaics to decrease in price and become more stabilized. 

However, one way to continue combatting such misconceptions is to educate the market on the current pricing programs that allow the costs to be feasible and affordable. Solar is also a great way to present its practical use toward net-zero energy buildings initiatives.

What's Next For BIPV?

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From my perspective, BIPV is the next phase of the solar market. In Canada, particularly where my company is located, a study by Natural Resources Canada in revealed a considerable market potential for BIPV, indicating that photovoltaic materials have a successful execution opportunity through B2B and B2C building installations. Today's construction industry is trending toward high-rises and modern architectural skyscrapers, increasing the area suitable for incorporating BIPV. In addition, technological advancements regarding energy efficiency and the transparency of solar materials allow for the broader adoption of BIPV solutions.

However, the construction industry needs to expand on this innovative solution and challenge the traditional materials by proving their efficiency and effectiveness within the market. Business owners are also pushing for innovations and functional materials.

While BIPV produces clean energy during the day and can store energy at night from daylight generation, the diverse use of BIPV systems also opens many new doors for architects and building designers to enhance the visual appearance of any building. When it comes to construction opportunities, structural BIPV can replace concrete loadbearing walls, which means having a concrete resembling material that produces electricity. Additionally, building owners can benefit from reduced utility costs and create a positive image by staying green and sustainable.

There is a broader window open for solar energy utilization, providing new market opportunities for solar manufacturers and the building envelope industries. And I believe that it is fair to say that BIPV has excellent potential in the B2B and B2C market, as it fits with modern architecture and sustainable designing goals.

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BIPV refers to Building Integrated Photovoltaics, that is, building integrated photovoltaics. This is a method of integrating solar photovoltaic technology into buildings to generate electricity and replace traditional building materials. BIPV systems convert sunlight into electrical energy by embedding photovoltaic elements into the surface or structure of a building, while achieving the functionality and decoration of the building.

It has many advantages, we will focus on whether Is BIPV the best choice for solar power generation.

What is the role of BIPV in solar energy? 

Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) cleverly integrates solar technology into the building structure, not only creating a unique appearance aesthetically but also maximizing the use of building surfaces and making full use of space. Its transparent or translucent design integrates perfectly with the architecture and provides clean energy to the urban landscape. Through self-sufficient energy supply, BIPV not only reduces dependence on traditional power networks but also reduces the construction industry's demand for traditional materials, pushing the construction industry toward a more environmentally friendly and sustainable direction. BIPV's continuous innovation and technological progress in the field of solar energy are expected to further improve its efficiency and promote the development of renewable energy.

Is it expensive to install BIPV?

The higher cost of adopting building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems is a disadvantage that cannot be ignored. However, these costs can be seen as replacing the cost of other building materials and traditional solar equipment. Over time, investments in BIPV systems can lead to substantial savings in terms of maintenance and sustainability. Although the initial cost is higher, BIPV is more durable, reducing expenditures on maintenance and replacement. Although the installation cost of BIPV may be higher than other solar systems, it can be considered a long-term investment because it combines the dual functions of building and solar equipment. As the BIPV market expands, costs are expected to gradually decrease and efficiency improve, making it more attractive.

Impact of BIPV on Sustainable Buildings

Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) has had a profound impact on sustainable construction. By integrating solar photovoltaic technology into the building structure, BIPV systems enable buildings to become renewable energy production units, reducing dependence on traditional energy sources. This clean energy production helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and is consistent with the environmentally friendly and lower carbon footprint requirements of sustainable buildings. At the same time, BIPV uses sustainable materials to improve space efficiency and promote architectural aesthetics and design innovation. Its integrated design helps maximize the use of building surfaces, improve energy efficiency, achieve self-sufficiency, and reduce community dependence on traditional power grids. The visibility of BIPV also sets the mark of sustainable architecture in the community, promoting the sustainable development of the community. This innovative solution is expected to drive the construction industry in a more sustainable and green direction.

Overall, BIPV continues to innovate its role in the field of solar power generation and is expected to further improve efficiency and promote the development of renewable energy. In terms of sustainable construction, BIPV has had a profound impact by reducing reliance on traditional energy, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and using sustainable materials and integrated design, setting an example for the sustainable development of communities. With the expansion of the BIPV market, the gradual reduction of costs, and the improvement of efficiency, BIPV is expected to become the best choice for the construction industry to pursue more sustainable and green development.

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