BIPV: innovation puts spotlight on solar

Abstract

IN A TIME WHEN SOLAR PV IS CHARACTERISED AS BEING A PROHIBITIVELY EXPENSIVE ALTERNATIVE FORM OF ENERGY (SUBSIDIES NOTWITHSTANDING), ONE APPLICATION AREA THAT COULD MAKE A REAL DIFFERENCE TO PERCEPTIONS IS BIPV (BUILDING INTEGRATED PV). THIS APPLICATION CAN EFFECTIVELY ENABLE BUILDING OWNERS TO SAVE ON THE CONSTRUCTION COSTS OF NEW BUILDINGS, WHILE AT THE SAME TIME GENERATE A PORTION OF THEIR OWN ELECTRICITY. FURTHER PROGRESS REQUIRES A HIGH LEVEL OF INNOVATION TO TRULY BRING SOLAR PV INTO BUILDINGS, WHILE MAKING THE TECHNOLOGY EVEN MORE AFFORDABLE. FORTUNATELY, THERE ARE SIGNS THAT SUCH INVENTIVENESS IS NOW MAKING A DIFFERENCE. © 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.