State-of-the-Art Building Integrated Photovoltaics

Abstract

Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems may represent a powerful and versatile tool for achieving the ever increasing demand for zero energy and zero emission buildings of the near future. In this respect BIPVs offer an aesthetical, economical and technical solution to integrate solar cells harvesting solar radiation to produce electricity within the climate envelopes of buildings. This work summarizes the current state-of-the-art of BIPVs, including both BIPV foil, tile, module and solar cell glazing products.