Have you heard of building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) systems? What about integrating solar glazing into the facade of buildings? They are becoming increasingly popular in Romania, after years of gaining notoriety in other European countries.
It’s quite a complex subject, so below we’ll take the information step by step. You’ll find out the answer to questions like: what is solar glass? What are its benefits? Is it worth buying or not?
Surely you’ve heard of classic solar panels or even used them. They are built to be placed on the ground or even on top of a building, but not inside its structure.
However, technology has advanced because photovoltaic panels are modular and robust, which has allowed them to adapt. And the experience in handling the panels, as well as the thirst for innovation, has led to the transformation of these panels into windows that can be integrated, with a high possibility of functioning efficiently.
Countries such as Spain and the UK have already adopted such solar panels integrated into public places to benefit from substantial savings and green energy. They can be found in London’s City Hall and San Antón Square in Madrid.
Basically, the integrated photovoltaic panel system is used instead of the usual building materials in the design or retrofit phase of a building. The advantage is that it can be applied to windows, roofs or facades.
The idea behind the system is that it does more than just supply electricity, it is part of the pleasing appearance of the building, blending in perfectly with it.
At first glance, you won’t be able to tell whether a building has solar or simply double glazing. The differences are more on the technical side, as the solar windows have small solar panels between their sheets of glass.
As I mentioned a little earlier, it is not the attractiveness (although it does exist) that is the main objective of the technology, but the sustainability it offers. The cost of solar glass pays for itself over time and provides green energy.
The method is a fantastic option for apartment blocks or other multi-storey buildings that may not have enough roof space to install PV panels. Being vertical, solar windows are installed on the facades of buildings and come with a significant benefit: they produce energy regardless of the time of year. Fortunately, there were no problems with soundproofing or thermal insulation.
Other derived benefits would be: directing light to the rear of rooms that have them installed, along with eliminating the greenhouse effect for south-facing rooms.
Of course, the area must be taken into account: where the sun is shining, whether there are trees or buildings around that can maintain shade, etc. It’s best to seek expert advice from the moment you start considering this possibility.