May 22, 2015: Focus on Renewable Energy, Green Buildings to Spur Demand for Building Integrated PV
BIPV Takes on the Dual Role of Both Building Envelope Material and Power Generator
SAN JOSE, Calif. — The annual installed capacity of building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) is projected to exceed 11 GW by 2020, driven by the increasing focus on renewable energy and the green building movement in the construction sector, according to a new report by Global Industry Analysts Inc.
BIPV refers to photovoltaic products such as solar panels and modules that are integrated into traditional building materials. BIPV takes on the dual role of both building envelope material and power generator, thus providing significant savings in terms of electricity and materials costs. Driven by technological advancements, BIPV systems are being designed to completely replace building components including parts of the building envelope such as roofing, façades, and windows; and in structural elements and accessories such as porches, railings, and balconies. Rising awareness of the benefits offered by integrated photovoltaic modules for onsite electricity generation and its favorable impact on improving the energy efficiency of buildings is a major factor encouraging BIPV installations, worldwide. While BIPV is generally used in new building construction, stringent energy efficiency norms are spurring demand in retrofit projects as well.