Architectural Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV)
Building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) is one of the most interesting aspect of photovoltaics (PV). It is possible to use PV modules as a "building block" to integrate into different parts of the building. PV modules have been used as substitute glass for skylights, or as spandrel glass. It has been used as a canopy, an awning, or rooftop shingles. The applications are endless. (See photo on left, Factory, Fairfield, CA, courtesy of Kiss + Cathcart Architects, New York, NY)
BIPV modules can be made to fit custom size areas but the largest to date manufactured is 4 feet by 8 feet. The thickness can also vary a great deal. The thinest modules are approximately 0.28"/0.70 cm. For some building integrated applications tampered glass is necessary that can use thicker glass. Sometimes wind loading is a factor. All of those considerations can be accomodated.
Manufacturing these BIPV modules, some color can be added to the finished modules. Even though, the original color of the a-Si modules cannot be changed, that is a dark coffee brown, but PV and clear glass can be alternated to achieve some very interesting color and pattern combinations. Fritted glass with a special silk screen pattern (dots) have been used to get an even more interesting building element (see picture below). Everything, of course, has its limits and price is usually a factor but we can accomodate a great deal of variations within the modules.
Another option is partially transparent PV modules. These modules have a certain pattern, dot (see left), stripe, or checkered which can give an extra diversity to the modules. Of course, as you pattern the modules, you remove material that would be used for electricity generation, therefore, the efficiency of the module will be reduced as well by approximately the same amount as the removed material. If we remove 20%, that is make the modules 20% transparent, the 40 watt module will generate 20% less power. The a-Si modules are partially transparent "by nature" but their transparency is only about 4%. It is really not enough to see through them easily.
In BIPV applications, the most cost-effective result can be reached if one keeps in mind the basic size of the module out of which all other modules will be made, that is 49 in/124.5 cm by 25 in/63.5 cm. Multiple sizes of these, or halfs, quarters will be most cost-effective solutions.
For more information on rooftop or ground mount applications please visit the Buildings tab on the Products page. To see more BIPV applications please visit our Project Gallery.