New Publication from SOLVE Partner: RISE Research Institutes of Sweden

Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) combine solar energy generation with building components such as façades and roofs. Beyond electricity production, BIPV solutions contribute to architectural design, multifunctionality, and sustainable construction practices, making them a promising pathway toward energy-positive buildings and urban decarbonisation.

🔎What does the study investigate?

The paper explores why BIPV remains a niche market despite its technological maturity and strong potential.

Using a Technological Innovation System (TIS) framework, the authors analyse structural and systemic factors affecting BIPV deployment. The study compares developments across six countries, including Sweden, the Netherlands, Italy, and Australia, highlighting similarities and differences in market formation, policy support, and industry coordination.

📊 Key Findings

• Limited market uptake despite increasing technological readiness
• Barriers related to costs, regulatory frameworks, and standards
• Challenges in social acceptance and awareness
• Weak integration between the construction sector and the PV industry
• A need for stronger policy coordination and harmonised standards

📌 Main Takeaway

BIPV holds substantial potential for sustainable and energy-positive buildings. However, scaling up requires:

• Coordinated and long-term policy support
• Improved cross-sector collaboration between construction and PV industries
• Clearer regulatory frameworks and standardisation
• Increased awareness across the building value chain

Strengthening these systemic conditions is essential to unlock the full potential of BIPV in accelerating the energy transition.

🔗 Read the full article here.