BIPV: Building-integrated Photovoltaics

Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) are solar power generating modules replacing a part of a building structure. If you talked to most people about solar panels, they’d probably be thinking about the rack-mounted systems that are very common on homes in suburban areas. With an integrated solar system, the units are not mounted on a roof; instead, they replace the roofing or façade materials.

This article will cover solar power systems in more detail, explain the benefits of solar power, and why you may wish to use it in your next building project. If you’re thinking about introducing photovoltaics (PV) as a part of your next project, read on to discover some of the benefits of having an integrated solar system.

What is Building-integrated Photovoltaics?

Building-integrated photovoltaics involves integrating PV into the building envelope. The PV modules aim to provide two different purposes. Firstly, it functions as the building skin, replacing standard materials such as tiles or cladding, and secondly, it generates power. These systems can save on building costs by effectively eliminating costs associated with supplying and installing a standard building skin. The solar system does not need the added costs of a mounting frame required with most PV systems.

In a complete integrated solar system it will include:

The PV modules can be made from a variety of materials and in different colours to retain the aesthetics of the building.
A charge controller will help to regulate all power generated.
The power storage system may include using the power grid or a series of batteries.
Power conversion equipment will convert generated power into a standard usable form (i.e., DC to AC).
Mounting hardware, wiring, and suitable safety devices.
Power backup systems, such as diesel generators (these are optional for standalone systems).

Building-integrated photovoltaics can be installed as a standalone (off-grid) system or interfaced with an existing utility grid. The benefits of any PV system are that your power consumption costs are lowered, and in turn, you are generating fewer greenhouse causes emissions. If sufficient PV is installed to cover your energy consumption, it is possible to eliminate your reliance on utility power and become completely self-sufficient in your power needs.

The History of Building-integrated Photovoltaics

PV has been commercially in use since the 1970s, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that interest grew around integrating solar systems into the actual building. BIPV solves a problem with standard PV, and this is that it does not require additional supports to be installed because it is a part of the structure.

In the early 2010s, studies were completed on the economics integrated solar systems, and they found some issues needed to be fixed before they could be competitive with PV systems. It is widely considered that building-integrated photovoltaics are an essential technology that will help governments achieve their energy reduction targets.

You can find examples of building integrated solar power systems being used effectively all over the world. Examples include parking structures, stadiums, and commercial buildings (e.g., Apple Inc. HQ). As these newer solar systems move from a commercial application into high-density urban design, the technology is set to become more affordable and accepted as a part of standard building practices.

BIPV vs Conventional PV

As building-integrated Photovoltaics is becoming increasingly popular with energy-conscious companies and individuals, production costs steadily decrease. If you’re renovating or constructing a new building, an integrated solar system should be high on your list if you’re considering power generation capabilities to your project.

In older buildings, conventional PV systems are more cost-effective. In this scenario, to install BIPV, you would need to remove an existing portion of the building, negating any savings. However, if your building is old and requires the roof to be replaced, then an integrated solar power system can provide a suitable solution and is incredibly cost-effective.

Pros of PV

These units are commonplace in many Australian suburbs, with many trained operators and manufacturers able to supply and fit.
It is very durable and has been in the market long enough for a real-time test to their longevity (25-30 years).
Power conversion efficiency has been increasing, while the supply price has decreased.
Most installations can be completed in a day and do not require specialist equipment.

Cons of PV

Do not add value to the appearance of the building.
Limited installation possibilities (roof or ground mounting only).
Animal infestation and maintenance.

Pros of BIPV

Will generate power and lower the greenhouse gas emissions of your home more than the standard PV, as standard roofing materials are not consumed..
Can replace external building coverings, which lowers the overall construction costs.
Available in a selection of styles and colours, which adds to the visual appeal of your building.
Integrates with all roofing types – slate, colorbond and tiles

Cons of BIPV

The BIPV market is still developing so systems and are not widely yet available nationally, and some builders lack appropriate training to install systems properly
Australia does not have specific BIPV standards set, so manufacturers are reliant on a combination of international testing standards, local panel standards and local building codes, which can be confusing.

Can building-integrated photovoltaics generate as much power as standard photovoltaics?

A large part of choosing the best solar panels for your home or building is working out which system is ideal. It is challenging to determine which system is best without visiting the installation location. The factors that contribute to your power generation capabilities will include the location of your home, where the panels are installed and how much sunlight exposure they will receive.

In standard rack mounted PV systems, the installers can angle the panels to achieve the optimal 30 degree angle for sunlight exposure albeit the performance of panels is only nominally affected by the angle so most installers simply install parallel to the roof. In a building-integrated photovoltaics installation, roof modules or shingles can be installed to the entire roof space, and the increased surface area will make up for any inefficiencies. In most modern homes, these solar systems are more than capable of helping homeowners obtain a net-zero energy rating.

Other types of photovoltaics (e.g., façade and skylights) are not as efficient as integrated roofing systems in their power generation abilities, and these may not be suited for all homes. A façade BIPV is best used when the roof is not suitable for roof installations (e.g., tall buildings) and where the side of the building has more exposure to sunlight. When used in skylights (and windows), photovoltaic panels are made of lighter coloured materials, which cannot absorb as much as dark coloured shingles. Transparent panels may see a reduction of up to 25-50% in efficiency compared to regular solar panels and other BIPV systems. Technological advances are improving the performance of all panels, including transparent panels, quickly so efficiency levels will only continue to increase.

All homes and other buildings are different due to their orientation and geographical location. It is best to consult with a professional team before deciding which system is more efficient. If you are yet to build, you can consult with a supplier to install the most efficient BIPV system.

Types of building-integrated photovoltaics

There is a massive variety of BIPV available to the market. For simplicity, these are generally placed into two categories: roofing and facade systems. A roofing system can consist of tiles, shingles, and skylights. And roofing systems are further split between specialised (more expensive) panel and tile systems and roof agnostic panel systems that integrate with any roofing system. A facade system will include exterior walls, panels, and glazing.

The significant benefits of integrated solar power systems are that they can be made to appear like standard building components (awnings, etc.) or form a part of the entire structure, such as parking shelters. BIPV is widely considered the best method for adding PV systems in areas where space is premium.

When planning a project, one of the first steps is determining the building’s energy load and designing a suitable system to cover this amount. A BIPV system aims to reduce (or eliminate) a building’s reliance on the electric utility grid while providing power to be stored or used. Other aims for your solar system can include adding to the overall aesthetics of the building and improving the occupants’ experiences (e.g., reducing sun glare).

How much energy can building-integrated photovoltaics produce?

Your BIPV can produce as much as a standard PV system.. The total amount of energy production for your building depends on several critical criteria, these include:

The total amount of insolation. Insolation is the total amount of solar radiation that a surface receives over a specific time. With solar power generation, this figure is calculated for your location, and you may receive data in the form of kWh/m²/day.
Specific weather conditions. Extreme temperatures, cloud cover, and rain can affect your system negatively. Areas of high air pollution can also affect your BIPV system.
Shaded areas. Shade from buildings, trees, and other objects can reduce the efficiency of your system.

It is possible to provide a best-case scenario for your energy production, but these factors can contribute to your chosen system not delivering on targets. When you talk to a team of specialists, they can provide more detailed data on your area and what you can realistically expect from any planned system.

Can BIPV eliminate electric utility bills?

As with other solar systems, BIPV can eliminate your electric utility bills. If you install a system that can generate enough power to cover your daily usage, you’ll see a significant reduction in your power bills.

As solar systems can only generate power during daylight hours, you’ll need a storage device to assist in powering your building at night. There are feed-in tariffs available when you overproduce solar power, but this is lower than it costs to draw power from the grid. If you install enough panels, the overproduction during daylight hours can offset the cost of drawing from the grid at night.

In a residential home designed purposely to achieve a net-zero power consumption, eliminating your power bills with solar power is highly achievable. Talking to qualified solar installers and managing your power consumption are the first steps in eliminating your electricity bills.

Are building-integrated photovoltaics systems worth it?

A BIPV is best planned during a new build as the initial cost is largely offset by the savings you’ll achieve by not requiring standard roofing materials or façade. In some areas, solar power generating shingles are more durable than traditional roofing materials, which will mean your roof will last longer and therefore lowering your overall costs.

In smaller systems, such as a skylight, you keep the benefits of adding a skylight to your home and adding the benefits of a solar generating device.

A building-integrated photovoltaics system is usually only considered economical for established homes if your roof is ready to be replaced. Although, some homeowners prefer the attractive design elements of a BIPV system and choose to pay a premium over a standard PV system. Provide you are aware of the costs involved and calculated your reasons for a BIPV, then it is entirely up to the homeowner to decide if the system is worth it.

At this point, integrated solar systems are equal in price to premium solar panels and more expensive than regular solar panels. Façade systems can also be less efficient in producing energy for your home. But, as these systems become more commonplace, especially in new commercial (and some residential) buildings, the price will continue to drop. The main benefit of BIPV is that they can be installed in many different ways, leading to some fascinating architectural designs and far nicer aesthetics for your home.

What is the future of BIPV in Australia?

In 2020, the global building-integrated photovoltaic market was valued at over $16 billion (AUD) and was projected to be worth around $55 billion (AUD) by 2027. This growth is mainly due to the public interest in aesthetically pleasing solar and government incentives. Other factors that will help to brighten the future for BIPV in Australia include:

Increased government support; will include programs such as solar tax credits to help businesses offset the cost of purchasing and installs. Other support may include increased feed-in tariffs and financial support for developing improved systems.
A reduction in the cost of producing solar technology; as more people and businesses install solar panels, the costs are lowered due to reduced manufacturing costs. Governments can also play a part in reducing overall costs by establishing further incentives.
Increased uptake in the residential sector; increasing awareness of solar generating devices as a construction tool and design feature can increase uptake in the private sector. In the UK, where awareness is high, 60% of new build residential installs building-integrated photovoltaics. As people become more aware of solar as a viable option in Australia for their power, interest and demand will increase, further lowering production (and installation) costs.
Increased research into new technology is key to developing new methods for adding solar generating possibilities to buildings and landmarks. There is current research into the possibilities of PV paint, which include house paint and vehicle paint.

How to get started with BIPV

The team at Sollos is passionate and skilled in developing and designing building-integrated photovoltaics solutions. You can contact our team to discuss what our services can offer your new or existing building. We’ll talk you through the entire process and work with you to determine the best systems to improve your building and lower your need to rely on grid power. Call today.

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