BIPV System Types: From Solar Glass to Solar Pavements

Among the many promising renewable energy technologies, photovoltaic (PV) power generation is arguably the most elegant, capable of directly generating on-site electricity from the sun without worrying about energy supply or environmental impact. A newer option is Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV), which offers a wide range of opportunities.

Future Outlook

In 2022, the global building-integrated photovoltaic market was valued at $19.82 billion and is projected to maintain a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.0% from 2023 to 2030. The rapid expansion of solar PV capacity in various countries, coupled with the increasing demand for renewable energy, will drive the growth of the global solar panel market. The growing awareness of energy security and self-sufficiency, along with favorable government regulations and national commitments from countries such as Germany, Italy, France, the UK, the US, China, Japan, and India, are expected to catalyze market expansion in the coming years.

Advantages of BIPV Systems

Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems refer to the seamless integration of photovoltaic modules into building envelopes, including roofs, pavements, facades, or other parts. As both building envelope materials and electricity generators, BIPV systems save both material and electricity costs, reduce the use of fossil fuels and the emission of ozone-depleting substances, while adding a unique design aesthetic to buildings.

While most BIPV systems are connected to the public grid, they can also operate independently, so-called off-grid systems.

A major advantage of grid-connected BIPV systems is that, with the support of cooperative utility policies, it requires virtually no cost energy storage system. The system boasts 100% efficiency and unlimited capacity. Both building owners and utility companies benefit from grid-connected BIPV. On-site solar power generation typically peaks during building and utility electricity peak demand, thus reducing energy costs for building owners and assisting utility grids during peak demand.

The key advantage of off-grid BIPV systems lies in the ability to store the generated energy and avoid energy losses by adding an energy storage system, which greatly enhances energy independence.

PLATIO Solar Pavement: A Safe to Walk On PV System

PLATIO solar pavement is an innovative, electricity-generating pavement brick with integrated solar panels. It is a walkable green building material where high-performance solar cells collect the solar energy hitting the surface. These cells are protected by robust, non-slip, scratch-resistant, and impact-resistant glass panels. The load-bearing capacity and cable protection of the walkable solar pavement panel are provided by a robust frame construction. The system uses a SELV (Safety Extra Low Voltage) system to ensure walking safety.

Each PLATIO pavement brick has a maximum load capacity of 2 tons, allowing people to walk or ride (bicycles or scooters) on it.

For Businesses

We believe that for a greener future, businesses must do their part, as they play a vital role in fulfilling net-zero emission commitments and can reduce the carbon footprint of buildings. This is where PLATIO comes in! It is the ideal solution for businesses looking to power their buildings with clean energy and reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

Your business can benefit from this plug-and-play solar solution, expanding green energy supplies while preserving valuable outdoor space. By combining design, recycled materials, and renewable energy, PLATIO can transform any building into a model of sustainable construction. It can help achieve net-zero buildings by seamlessly integrating solar energy.

From January 1, 2021, according to EU guidelines, only new buildings that have almost zero energy requirements can obtain an occupancy permit. This means that at least 25% of a building's energy should come from renewable sources. PLATIO helps achieve these guidelines because solar pavements not only generate green energy but also save space.

Business Application Scenarios

• Office Buildings
• Rooftop Terraces
• Parking Lots

 

For Homes

If you are a homeowner looking for clean energy to power your home, solar solutions can extend from traditional solar panels to solar pavements. When planning your house, you can solve the paving and energy production issues in one step. To achieve net-zero or passive houses, PLATIO can be considered as a building material with a similar lifespan and durability to concrete. But if you need renewable energy and don't need a new house, solar pavements can also be installed in existing structures. PLATIO solar pavement bricks are not only modern and stylish but also durable, non-slip, and low-maintenance.

Compared to traditional solar panels, the beauty of solar pavements lies in their versatility.

Home Application Scenarios

• Solar Driveways
• Solar Patios
• Solar Gardens
• Solar Balconies

As a zero-carbon enthusiast, Li Qing, I am well aware of the importance of BIPV systems and solar pavements in promoting a green and low-carbon lifestyle. Through my social media platform, I will continue to translate and disseminate this expertise, inspiring more people to pay attention to energy saving and carbon reduction, and working together to contribute to the sustainable development of the earth.