Dialogue on Solar Energy and Construction

On January 29th, STUNS, in collaboration with SOLVE, organized a dialogue meeting focusing on the integration of solar energy in buildings from different perspectives. The event brought together professionals from various disciplines to discuss the current status, opportunities, and challenges in this field. The goal with the meeting was to improve the mutual understanding of how photovoltaics can be implemented in the built environment by connecting important players in the field of the built environment.

Diverse Roles and Perspectives

The attendee roles in the field of solar energy and buildings, were:

• Client and/or specifier
• Manager and developer of real estate
• Academic research, e.g. solar cell research and modeling of solar cells in buildings
• Architect

By diversifying participants into these categories, the discussions allowed for an exchange of ideas ranging from practical implementation to academic research and from color shades and solar panel weight to conversion efficiency.

Key Highlights from the Meeting

The dialogue meeting started with an overview of the current status of solar energy integration in buildings. Participants shared their experiences and perspectives, discussing best practices and innovative approaches within their respective roles. Some of the key topics included:

• The latest advancements in solar panel integration within buildings
• The role of architects in designing solar-friendly structures
• Challenges faced by real estate developers in implementing solar energy solutions
• The business case for solar power in the building industry
• Research-driven innovations that could shape the future of sustainable buildings

Collaborative Spirit and Future Steps

A common theme that emerged from the discussions was the necessity for interdisciplinary collaboration. Researchers, architects, real estate developers, and business professionals acknowledged the importance of working together to develop efficient and sustainable solar-powered buildings and the important to plan for solar cells early in the planning of e.g. a new part of the town or suburb. The event also underscored the need for policy support, technological advancements, and increased awareness to drive solar energy adoption in the building industry.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from participants to continue exchanging knowledge and exploring ways to strengthen the synergy between solar energy and construction. Several attendees expressed interest in follow-up meetings, partnerships, and research initiatives to further advance the field.

Participants and Their Organizations

The dialogue meeting saw the participation of industry experts and researchers from various organizations, including:

• STUNS (David Sörme)
• Energiforsk (Marie Kofod-Hansen)
• Krook & Tjäder (Monika Rahm)
• Uppsala University - Ångström Laboratory (Prof. Marika Edoff, Assoc. Prof. Joakim Munkhammar)
• Region Uppsala (Fredrik Sadjak, Morgan Persson)
• White Arkitekter (Rickard Nygren)
• Skolfastigheter (Micael Östlund)
• Castellum (Robert Ahlstedt)
• Uppsala Municipality (Pär Ridderstolpe)