Top 10 manufacturers of building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV)

What is BIPV?

BIPV is the abbreviation of "Building Integrated Photovoltaics", which means building integrated photovoltaic system. BIPV technology integrates photovoltaic power generation panels into the external structure of the building, such as roofs, walls, windows, etc., to achieve the integration of building and energy. This technology enables the building itself to become a photovoltaic power generation device, which can generate electricity from the sun and does not require additional space to install traditional photovoltaic panels.

Advantages of BIPV technology include:

Aesthetic and design advantages: BIPV systems can blend into the building’s appearance and design and are not as conspicuous as traditional photovoltaic panels.

Space Savings: Since BIPV systems are integrated directly into the building’s exterior, no additional space is required to install photovoltaic panels, saving ground or roof space.

Sustainability: BIPV systems use solar energy to generate electricity, which can reduce a building’s energy consumption and dependence on traditional energy sources, thereby reducing carbon emissions.

Adaptability: BIPV systems can be customized according to the different needs and designs of buildings and can be used in various types of buildings.

BIPV (Building Integrated Photovoltaics, building integrated photovoltaic system) usually consists of the following components:

●Photovoltaic panels: Photovoltaic panels are the core component of BIPV systems and are responsible for converting solar energy into electrical energy. These panels are usually made of silicon or other photovoltaic materials and have efficient photoelectric conversion capabilities.

●Support structures: Support structures are used to mount photovoltaic panels on exterior surfaces of buildings, such as roofs, walls or windows. The support structure needs to have sufficient strength and stability to ensure that the PV system can be securely attached to the building and be able to withstand external forces such as wind loads.

●Electrical components: BIPV systems also include electrical components such as inverters, cables, connectors, etc., which are used to convert the DC power generated by the photovoltaic panels into AC power and integrate it into the building's power grid.

●Monitoring and control system: The monitoring and control system is used to monitor the performance and operating status of the BIPV system to ensure that it is working properly and maximizing its effectiveness. These systems can include data collection equipment, monitoring software and remote control capabilities.

●Appearance design: Considering the integration of the BIPV system, appearance design is also a very important part. The design of the BIPV system needs to be coordinated with the building's exterior to ensure overall aesthetics and functionality.

In the search for sustainable energy solutions, integrating solar energy into building design has become a promising avenue. Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) not only harness solar energy, but also integrate seamlessly with the built environment and are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. As the demand for renewable energy grows, so does the importance of BIPV solutions. Here, we explore the top ten BIPV manufacturers shaping the future of sustainable building practices.

1. Baoding Jiasheng Optoelectronics Technology Co., Ltd.

Baoding Jiasheng Photovoltaic Technology Co., Ltd. (Gain Solar) is part of the Yingli Group and is a leading expert in carbon-neutral solutions. We have been committed to providing innovative building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) green materials, such as solar tiles, solar floors, etc. Our vision is to create a world where solar energy can be harnessed from every surface the sun hits.

2. First Solar

First Solar is a pioneer in BIPV technology with its expertise in cadmium telluride (CdTe) thin-film solar modules. The company’s commitment to innovation has placed it at the forefront of numerous BIPV projects around the world.

3. Solar power

SunPower, known for its high-efficiency solar panels, has made significant inroads in the BIPV space with its SunTile product line. SunPower combines cutting-edge technology with design aesthetics to attract attention in the field of sustainable construction.

4. Tesla (formerly SolarCity)

Tesla’s foray into BIPV with solar roof tiles exemplifies innovation at the intersection of energy and design. By seamlessly integrating solar cells into traditional roofing materials, Tesla is redefining the solar building landscape.

5. Hanergy

Hanergy is a well-known player in the Chinese market with significant investments in thin-film solar technology, including BIPV solutions. Its commitment to sustainability highlights its growing influence in the global renewable energy sector.

6. Trina Solar

Trina Solar's reputation as one of the largest solar panel manufacturers extends to its involvement in BIPV projects. Trina Solar provides products from crystalline silicon to thin-film solar solutions and continues to drive innovation in sustainable building integration.

7. Sharp

Sharp’s black solar panels have become synonymous with beauty and performance in BIPV applications. The company’s commitment to quality and design excellence has made it a key player in the growing BIPV market.

8. Suntech Power

Suntech Power is involved in various solar projects around the world and extends to BIPV installations. Suntech Power focuses on efficiency and reliability and continues to contribute to the advancement of sustainable building practices.

9. Canadian Solar

Canadian Solar's global footprint and diverse product portfolio include BIPV solutions tailored to meet the evolving needs of the built environment. Its commitment to quality and sustainability underlines its position as a leading BIPV manufacturer.

10. Kyocera Solar

Kyocera's durable solar panels resonate in BIPV applications, delivering performance and longevity. With a focus on innovation and reliability, Kyocera continues to push the boundaries of solar integration in buildings.

In summary, the advent of BIPV heralds a new era of sustainable architecture, combining energy efficiency with aesthetic appeal. The contributions of these top ten BIPV manufacturers exemplify the convergence of innovation, sustainability, and design excellence in shaping the cities of the future. As the demand for renewable energy solutions continues to grow, the role of BIPV in redefining the built environment cannot be underestimated. Together, these manufacturers are lighting the way to a greener, more sustainable future.

What is Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV)?

Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) is a technology that provides solar power generation capacity to a building without disrupting the aesthetics of the building design. The technology integrates photovoltaic (PV) modules into the skin of a building, replacing the façade and sloping/flat/curved roofs.

Some BIPV applications include metal PV modules or solar tiles for roofs, aesthetically designed custom-sized PV modules for solar facades, PV windows to replace building glazing and PV skylights, and other PV retrofits integrated into the building skin.

Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) is an emerging technology with great potential to reduce the carbon footprint and electricity bills of buildings. bipv represents an economic benefit for buildings, but also implies high upfront costs compared to traditional facades.

Types of BIPV options

There are several BIPV technologies available for building applications. Due to its natural insulating properties, BIPV can reduce the amount of energy required to operate a building. 

These technologies can be used in a number of different ways for building applications. The four most common ways in which BIPV is used in build applications are

External walls

Windows and overhead glazing

Roofs

Sunshades

Further benefits of BIPV

BIPV technology can produce more energy than conventional solar panels and requires less space.

Integrated photovoltaics are an environmentally friendly technology as they do not pollute the environment.

The use of BIPV will have a positive impact on your organisation - if you use it in your building or company

BIPV modules

BIPV modules use crystalline silicon based solar cells or thin film technologies such as amorphous silicon, cadmium telluride and copper indium gallium selenide. Most technologies can achieve varying degrees of transparency by spacing the opaque solar cells or making the thin film layer transparent.

BIPV modules replace traditional building envelope materials and generate electricity at the same time. By avoiding the cost of traditional building materials, the lifecycle cost of a PV system is greatly increased.

BIPV system components

BIPV systems typically consist of the following components.

Photovoltaic modules (thin film or crystalline).

Charge controllers, which are used in some systems to regulate the power to and from the energy storage bank.

Energy storage systems, consisting of a utility grid or multiple batteries in a utility interaction system.

Power conversion equipment - in particular inverters for converting the DC output of BIPV modules to AC power compatible with the utility grid.

Standby power in a stand-alone system (optional) - usually a diesel generator.

Support and installation hardware, wiring and safety disconnects.