BIPV-CIS: Improved integration of pv into existing buildings by using thin film modules for retrofit

• Research unit: EU RFP
• Project number: 03.0046

Key words (English)

CIS-modules; PV-building integration

Alternative project number (English)

EU project number: 503777

Research programs (English)

EU-programme: 6. Frame Research Programme - 1.6.1 Urspr. Progr. Sustainable energy systems

Short description (English)

See abstract

Abstract (English)

The results of the project will improve and widen the potential for the integration of solar (PV) energy systems into existing buildings. Special attention will be paid to architectural and aesthetic questions.
Building integration of PV systems in most cases leads to a 'high tech' and 'modern' appearance of the building. This is caused by the typical window-like surface of most conventional PV modules. Regarding however that 90% of the building stock consists of longer existing, that means 'old fashioned' buildings, it is evident that an aesthetically satisfying building integration of PV needs a lot of good will and creativity from planners and architects. In many existing building integrated PV systems the modules contrast with the building and its surroundings.
A European survey on the potential and needs for building integrated PV components and systems will identify the basis for the development of modules away from the glass /window-like appearance.
In the project PV roof tiles, overhead glazing and façade elements based on CIS thin film technology will be developed and investigated which have a modified optical appearance for better adaptation to the building skin. One of the ideas is optical decoupling of substrate and cover glass.
A complete roof tile system with thin film cells adapted to the visual appearance of conventional roof tiles and innovative connection and mounting will be developed. The work includes prototype fabrication and tests according to relevant standards and subsequent performance tests.
Novel overhead glazing includes semitransparent thin film modules optimised for daylight transmission. The back side appearance will be modified in order to represent the visible inner part of the building skin. For overhead and insolating glazing an invisible interconnection and for PV roof tiles a low cost connector will be developed. Project result will be PV modules and generators for improved building integration ready for industrial manufacturing.

References in databases (English)

Swiss Database: Euro-DB of the
State Secretariat for Education and Research
Hallwylstrasse 4
CH-3003 Berne, Switzerland
Tel. [phone]
Swiss Project-Number: 03.0046