This report provides an overview of current building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) definitions. The definitions have been used in standards to specify their scope, by funding programmes to differentiate between classes of photovoltaic systems that were eligible for different subsidies, and in collaborative research projects and programmes to achieve a common working understanding of the topic.
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The reviewed current standards agree in requiring a PV module or system to have (at least) dual functionality as an electricity generator and a building component to qualify as building-integrated photovoltaics. Typical functions of building components that can be fulfilled by BIPV elements are specified. Removal of the BIPV element would require its replacement by an equivalent conventional building component.
Most of the reported national funding programmes, which often promote the installation of BIPV systems with more favourable conditions than for other PV installations, follow the same general criteria to define BIPV as in current standards, but specify them in more detail and provide more examples. The Chinese criterion for BIPV differs from the others in that it regards integration as being evidenced by close collaboration along the whole supply chain of the building team that implements a BIPV installation.
Most of the definitions used by research programmes and projects are similar to those of current standards. An exception is the definition of IEA-SHC Task 41, which explicitly introduces the concept of formal (aesthetic) integration. This is a concept which is usually considered to be outside the scope of technical standards and guidelines that provide the framework for specifications.
The dual functionality of generating electricity and serving a specific and integral purpose as a building component is common to almost all reviewed definitions. To serve a useful purpose in technical standards, it is beneficial to recognise the widespread division of responsibility for products, usually taken by the manufacturer or a single on-site assembler, and systems, usually assumed by the system provider/installer. This is reflected below by providing separate definitions for BIPV products and BIPV systems.
Taking the observations above into account, the following definitions are recommended as a basis of common understanding within IEA-PVPS Task 15 for use within Subtask C for proposals concerning BIPV standards:
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A BIPV module is a PV module and a construction product together, designed to be a component of the building. A BIPV product is the smallest (electrically and mechanically) non-divisible photovoltaic unit in a BIPV system which retains building-related functionality. If the BIPV product is dismounted, it would have to be replaced by an appropriate construction product.
A BIPV system is a photovoltaic system in which the PV modules satisfy the definition above for BIPV products. It includes the electrical components needed to connect the PV modules to external AC or DC circuits and the mechanical mounting systems needed to integrate the BIPV products into the building.
Architects rely on BIPV
Architects are gravitating towards BIPV for its versatility, tapping into the energy potential of an all-productive surface. For the first time, double-duty materials are lowering costs as compared to traditional solar panels, which must be attached to an existing, architecturally sound structure. The incorporation of multifunctional materials into green design also allows for onsite production of electricity, with the compelling potential to reduce a buildings dependence on the grid.
Strict climate policies aimed at accelerating our collective shift towards carbon neutrality will also be a boon to building integrated PV. Last year, California decreed that most new homes must be fitted with solar energy systems. A handful of citiesWatertown, Massachusetts among themnow mandate that qualifying buildings be retrofitted with solar and that new constructions be solar ready. Climate lobbyists intend to have similar legislation introduced in a dozen states by . These recent compulsory solar policies are already driving demand for more beautiful, sustainable construction products.
By boasting the same functionality and a more customized aesthetic, building-integrated PV offers a solution for those who may not like the look of traditional solar panels. Beyond its integration into new buildings, a more subtle appearance means BIPV has been employed in renewable energy renovations within protected cultural heritage sites. Also unlike traditional panels, colored layers or films can be built into BIPV technology, allowing for personalized color-coating to complement any architectural style.
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