New study on hidden colored Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) 

In the promotion of zero energy or positive building, on-site production from renewable energy plays a pivotal role and building integrating photovoltaics (BIPV) constitute a valuable solution to integrate PV technologies in the building envelope. 

One of the most challenging aspects to be considered in designing BIPV installations, is their aesthetic integration in the building and its surrounding. In this context, having BIPV products that can match the architectural language and composition of existing buildings, represents a clear advantage. In particular, the introduction of colored BIPV modules has been instrumental for increasing BIPV installations and their social acceptance.  

A recent study by Eurac Research, SUNAGE and the Department of Energy of Politecnico di Milano, showcases the possibilities for integrating PV in the building envelope, focusing on the technological solutions for introducing colors in BIPV modules and discussing the design challenges for colored BIPV integration in the building stock. 

The study identifies the three main characteristic that are crucial for a better design: 

1. the shape and dimension; 

2. the color, which affects the modules’ efficiency; 

3. the finishing, which influences the modules’ reflectance. 

These features and the challenges for the integration of BIPV systems in the envelope are highlighted by providing exemplary case studies. One of the most important challenges will be the balance between the industrialization and customization aspects, to make BIPV technologies more competitive and profitable. 

The study was presented at EuroSun 2022, ISES and IEA SHC International Conference on Solar Energy for Buildings and Industry, which took place between the 25 and 29 September 2022 in Kassel, Germany. 

Read the poster presented during the conference.

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Photo by Joel Filip from Unsplash