World overview of building-integrated photovoltaics

There is a growing consensus that distributed photovoltaic (PV) power systems will be among those applications to first reach widespread commercialization in the generation of power on the utility grid. Chief among these distributed applications are PV power systems for individual buildings. Interest in the building integration of photovoltaics, where the PV modules actually become an integral part of the building, often serving as the exterior weathering skin, is growing worldwide. With reduced installation costs, improved aesthetics and all the benefits of distributed generation, building-integrated PV systems are a prime candidate for early market penetration. Product development is proceeding in three general areas: integral roof modules; roofing tiles and shingles; and integral modules for vertical facades. This paper covers residential and commercial applications with examples of the direct integration of PV elements into residential and commercial buildings using built examples from the US, Europe and Japan