The field of photovoltaics, or PV, has exploded in the past few years. From rooftop systems to utility-scale projects, solar energy is increasingly becoming a common source of electricity for homes and businesses across the country. But what is BIPV, and how does it work? Photovoltaics ( PV ) is a method of generating electricity from light-sensitive semiconductors called photovoltaic cells. These cells take in light, change their chemical properties and produce an electrical output when they are stopped from releasing their stored energy again. When integrated with other photovoltaic technologies or used as part of a holistic system such as an integrated PV installation (BIPV), the number of total units generated increases significantly. BIPV stands for Building-Integrated Photovoltaics, which refers to a photovoltaic technology that is incorporated into the structure of buildings rather than on its surface like traditional solar panels. There are two main ways BIPV installations work: They either use sunlight to make energy within the building through artificial photosynthesis (using plant oils), or harness natural light that comes through windows to generate power without using any outdoor space to do so.
What are building integrated photovoltaics?
Building-Integrated Photovoltaics, or BIPV, refers to a photovoltaic technology that is incorporated into the structure of buildings rather than on its roof only, like traditional solar panels. There are two main ways BIPV installations work: They either use sunlight to make energy within the building through artificial photosynthesis (using plant oils etc.), or harness natural light that comes through windows to generate power without using any outdoor space. Then, the generated electricity is transferred down wire cables to and into storage or use by devices or appliances in your building. Alternatively, the power can be used by the grid and distributed to other utility customers.
How are building integrated photovoltaics installed?
A BIPV installation is typically installed on a building’s facade, with the goal of generating renewable energy while being nearly hidden from the naked eye. The technology can be found in buildings of all shapes and sizes, from schools to skyscrapers. BIPV can be cleverly disguised as roof tiles, decorative siding panels, windows, flooring or even balcony railing glass. BIPV is secured using a variety of fasteners, racking, adhesives and ballasts. Then, the photovoltaic panel is connected using wiring or a polymer based ribbon that stretches across the building. This wire or ribbon has two electrodes, or terminals, where wires are connected to other components.
What company started BIPV?
Installations of BIPV can be found around the world. Early installations were primarily in Europe, but since 2005, more than 1 gigawatt (GW) of BIPV has been installed. One company that helped to revolutionize the field is SolarCity Corporation, which was founded in 2006 and is headquartered in San Mateo, California. Tesla acquired SolarCity in 2016.
What companies manufacture building integrated photovoltaics today?
Currently, two companies stand out as producing innovative BIPV products today. Mitrex, a Canadian – based company and Solar Innova, a European – based company. Both are producing photovoltaic products that can be integrated with building design. Other companies manufacturing BIPV technology include Tesla, SMA, SolarWorld, Sharp, Panasonic, LG and Hanwha Q CELLS.
How will BIPV change the solar industry?
BIPV installations are designed to be seamlessly integrated with the architecture of buildings. Unlike other solar technologies, BIPV doesn’t require any open space or infrastructure to operate; it simply needs a mostly unobstructed view of the sky. This offers a variety of benefits including increased efficiency and more space on rooftops for other purposes. Additionally, because BIPV can run without a connection to the grid, it is able to function independently of the electricity grid though some utility providers do not allow off-grid installation. Check with your utility provider for more details. This can minimize power outages and save energy costs in the long-run, as well as ensure energy is available during extreme weather events or when people need it most.
