Traditionally, solar panels are installed on the roof of a house, on the roof of a building, or even installed on metallic structures at ground level. However, with the development of different technologies for producing photovoltaic panels, architects are starting to incorporate the panels on walls, replacing conventional roofs and windows on buildings or houses. Any practice of incorporating the panel into the construction is known as BIPV (Building Integrated Photovoltaics).
BIPV consists of solar cells or panels, which are integrated into the construction elements or materials as part of the building structure. This way, they replace a conventional building element, instead of being attached to one. BIPV solar panels not only generate electricity, but they can also provide additional features to the building. For example, they can protect against the sun’s radiation, thermal insulation, rain protection, partial shading of certain areas, replacement of roof tiles, etc.
Where can it be installed?
This technology provides several benefits when compared to traditional solar panel installations. First of all, there are more surfaces available for the integration of BIPV panels, so you are no longer limited to the rooftop. The BIPV solar panels can also be integrated into façades, skylights, building railings, balconies, marquees and much more. An Integrated Photovoltaic system also contributes to the aesthetics of the building.
For example, the materials used for BIPV allow architects to be creative with the transparency and colour of the solar panels. When integrated into façades, skylights or windows, the BIPV can contribute to keeping the building temperature within the desired range, thus saving a lot of energy with air-conditioning or heating.
Which design options are used in BIPV?
Transparent modules, colored modules, and black modules are all different types of Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) that can be used in different ways to achieve different aesthetic and performance goals.
In general, transparent and colored modules are used for aesthetic purposes where as black modules are used for their performance. The choice of which type of module to use will depend on the specific requirements of the building and the goals of the project.
Conclusion
BIPV is still a niche market, but architects are starting to look at using this technology more often in designing new residential and office buildings. New energy-efficient building concept designs are helping to drive demand for BIPV solar panels.
Kerala style homes have courtyards surrounded by rooms on each side. Traditional Kerala-style homes have a central courtyard known as Nadumuttam surrounded by rooms. These homes promote natural light and ventilation according to the region’s climate. These homes, due to the feature of courtyards as their core spaces, offer beautiful opportunities for social gatherings. This […]
Arches have long held a timeless appeal in architecture—graceful, structural, and endlessly versatile. From a grand entrance to soft curves of an interior, arch design is making a reappearance in today’s interiors. Whether you like classic archways or clean lines of modern arches, every design aesthetic has an arch style. In this blog, we will […]
India, a nation bustling with innovation and a constant drive for progress, is increasingly embracing an unconventional yet incredibly promising architectural trend: container architecture. We are witnessing a fascinating transformation, as discarded shipping containers, once traversing the high seas laden with goods, now find new life as dynamic, sustainable, and surprisingly sophisticated living and working […]
In the world of interior design, luxury is no longer just about opulence—it’s about intentionality, emotion, and storytelling. Today’s luxury interiors blend comfort, artistry, and innovation, often reflecting a personalized experience that resonates with the inhabitants. From fashion boutiques echoing ancient geology to apartments that merge modern design with classic charm, luxury interiors are becoming […]
Throughout history, stone has embodied permanence, artistry, and raw beauty in architecture. From the grandeur of Roman amphitheaters to the earthy elegance of modern villas, stone remains a beloved material for its strength, sustainability, and aesthetic richness. As design trends evolve toward natural materials, eco-conscious decisions, and biophilic design, stone has found new expressions — […]
If you’ve ever struggled to visualize how a new sectional or bookshelf will look before you click “Buy,” you’ll appreciate the power of a free room design tool that lets you drop, resize, and style real-world furniture in seconds. Arcadium 3D—an online, browser-based design platform—pairs professional-grade 3-D modeling with an expanding catalog of parametric furniture, […]
Balcony decor ideas are a trend nowadays, as people have increasingly started living in apartments. These tiny spaces of the house have a larger importance in the day-to-day life of a person who lives on the upper floors of the apartments. Thus, balcony decor ideas must be very subjective to the people living in the […]
Staircase design for home plays a key role in shaping both function and style in interior architecture. Designers consistently push boundaries to create a staircase design for home that reflects personality, optimises space, and enhances aesthetics. From minimal floating stairs to ornate traditional options, each staircase design for home contributes a unique character. In this […]
When it comes to enhancing the kitchen window over the sink, various design ideas are possible to decorate Indian homes. From rooted in tradition to Western-style modular kitchens offer both functionality and attractive aesthetics. Apart from the sleek profile and raised breakfast counter, the kitchen window over sink is another spot to add appeal and […]
Indian homes place equal importance on pooja room door designs as they do on main door designs. With diverse and unique ethnic backgrounds, every family strives to reflect their personalities and identities in their designs. These identities can encompass religious or spiritual interests, local contexts, or other personal elements. This series of blogs, featuring 50 […]