This article by Task 15 explores the different benchmarks needed to support strategic BIPV design, investment, and policy decisions. During this study, Task 15 evaluated 357 BIPV design options across 44 cities in 12 countries spanning six continents.
Key findings:
– Rooftop PV and vertical BIPV work better together. Their complementary generation profiles extend solar production from morning to afternoon, creating a smoother and more stable energy supply.
– Vertical BIPV is more competitive than many assume. It requires only 1.7–2.5× the area of rooftop PV to generate equivalent annual energy levels, highlighting the enormous untapped potential of building façades.
– BIPV is becoming increasingly cost-competitive. At current technology levels (~18% module efficiency), more than 90% of the assessed BIPV configurations are economically viable under low-price scenarios.
