Upgraded Manufacturing, Explosive Market: The Future of BIPV Components
1. Core Technologies and Advantages of BIPV Component Manufacturing
(a) Technological Advantages
BIPV (Building Integrated Photovoltaics) is a technology that integrates solar photovoltaic components into the structure and skin of buildings. Unlike traditional BAPV (Building Attached Photovoltaics), BIPV components serve as part of the building materials themselves, such as photovoltaic tiles, windows, and curtain walls, achieving a perfect combination of solar energy generation and building functionality. This highly integrated design not only saves space but also reduces material usage.
(b) Aesthetic and Functional Integration
BIPV components not only generate electricity but also harmonize with architectural styles, enhancing the modern and technological appeal of buildings. Utilizing special printing materials and processes, BIPV components can be designed in various colors and styles to meet the lighting requirements of buildings. For example, the next generation of high-efficiency photovoltaic building materials can mimic wood grain and marble effects, effectively turning the building facade into a “field of oil” on the exterior wall. These high-end, customized photovoltaic components not only enhance the building’s aesthetics but also lower the costs of exterior decorative materials.
(c) Long-term Stability and Economic Returns
BIPV components are closely integrated with the building envelope, allowing them to enjoy a lifespan equal to that of the building itself. Their high-quality materials and advanced manufacturing processes enable them to withstand harsh environmental conditions, such as high and low temperatures, ultraviolet radiation, and rain erosion. Furthermore, the installation and integration of BIPV systems are meticulously designed to ensure stable performance and efficient electricity generation during use. From an economic perspective, BIPV systems provide long-term financial returns for building owners. Through solar energy generation, owners can reduce electricity costs and earn additional income. Additionally, the long lifespan and low maintenance costs of BIPV components further decrease operating expenses.
2. Application Scenarios of BIPV in Building Integration
(a) Residential Buildings
The application of BIPV in residential buildings includes roofs, windows, and external walls. For instance, the “energy roof” project in France integrates photovoltaic components with roofing tiles to achieve both aesthetic and energy-generating effects. Additionally, BIPV components can be incorporated into window glass, providing electricity generation while maintaining a modern appearance.
(b) Commercial Buildings
Large roof or exterior wall areas of commercial buildings present ideal applications for BIPV. For example, the roof of Apple Park headquarters utilizes BIPV modules to generate renewable energy, and the glass curtain walls also incorporate photovoltaic technology. This application not only provides significant energy for the building but also enhances its environmentally friendly image.
(c) Urban Infrastructure
BIPV technology can also be applied to urban infrastructure such as bridges, carports, and billboards. In the Zuidas area of Amsterdam, several high-rise buildings and municipal facilities have integrated BIPV, contributing to the region’s carbon neutrality goals.
(d) Transportation Facilities
Transportation hubs such as train stations and airports often have large roofs or exterior walls suitable for BIPV system installations. For example, Freiburg station features photovoltaic panels on both the roof and platform, generating green electricity through BIPV technology.
(e) Industrial Buildings
Industrial plants and warehouses typically require substantial electricity, making rooftop installations of large photovoltaic systems an effective way to reduce energy costs. For instance, several Toyota factories in Japan have adopted BIPV technology, integrating photovoltaic modules into their roofs to lower energy consumption and enhance energy self-sufficiency.
(f) Public Buildings
BIPV is suitable for public buildings such as schools, hospitals, and libraries, meeting both energy needs and aesthetic requirements. For example, several buildings at the National University of Singapore (NUS) utilize integrated photovoltaic technology to provide green energy while creating an eco-friendly environment for students and staff.
(g) Special Application Scenarios
BIPV technology can also be applied in unique scenarios such as photovoltaic sidewalks, railings, stairwells, and floating photovoltaic systems. For example, the photovoltaic walkway at the Xifu River Green Low-Carbon Science and Technology Innovation Park stretches 518 meters, generating approximately 50,000 kWh annually, fully meeting the power needs of 80 smart streetlights along Central Avenue. Additionally, the Xifu River floating photovoltaic demonstration project employs floating photovoltaic technology, generating around 70,000 kWh per year to power hydrogen production at the hydrogen energy demonstration square.
3. Market Prospects for BIPV
(a) Policy Support and Market Demand
With the global demand for renewable energy continuously rising and the construction industry’s increasing focus on energy efficiency and environmental protection, the application prospects for BIPV technology are very promising. Governments worldwide are introducing policies to support the development of BIPV. For example, Suzhou City released the “Measures to Promote Integrated Photovoltaic Building Development (Trial)” in March 2024, aiming to establish a systematic support policy and technical framework for BIPV by the end of 2025. These policies provide robust support for the market development of BIPV.
(b) Market Size and Growth Trends
It is predicted that the BIPV market will maintain rapid growth in the coming years. The market size of BIPV in China is expected to increase from approximately 15 billion yuan in 2023 to over 100 billion yuan by 2030. This rapid growth is primarily driven by the continuous maturation of technology, cost reductions, and increasing market demand. For example, the emergence of new BIPV material technologies such as flexible components and perovskite solar cells offers more options for the market.
(c) Future Development Directions
In the future, the BIPV industry will evolve towards integration, intelligence, and multifunctionality. Products in various forms, such as solar glass, photovoltaic roof tiles, and transparent photovoltaic films, will gradually become mainstream. Furthermore, the integration of BIPV with smart city construction, 5G networks, and big data technologies will further expand application scenarios, providing buildings with a richer intelligent experience.
4. Zhongbu Qingtian: Supporting the Manufacturing and Market Development of BIPV Components
Zhongbu Qingtian, a leading enterprise in photovoltaic component equipment research and development, as well as the investment, construction, and operation of commercial photovoltaic power stations, is dedicated to promoting the innovation and application of BIPV technology. In component manufacturing, Zhongbu Qingtian focuses on the research and application of high-efficiency battery technologies, such as TOPCon, BC, and BIPV battery photovoltaic component production lines. The company has implemented fully automated production lines to reduce human error, improve production efficiency, and shorten delivery times. Additionally, Zhongbu Qingtian employs advanced packaging processes to ensure the stability and efficiency of components under various environmental conditions. For instance, the company has introduced advanced optical simulation technology to optimize material selection and enhance component power generation efficiency.
In terms of photovoltaic power station investment, construction, and operation, Zhongbu Qingtian offers comprehensive solutions. The company collaborates with enterprises like Sunshine New Energy to provide intelligent BIPV solutions. These solutions not only provide efficient photovoltaic generation systems for buildings such as factory roofs but also include intelligent monitoring systems to continuously track the operational status of the power station, ensuring system stability and efficiency.
In the future, Zhongbu Qingtian will continue to increase investments in the BIPV field and promote market development for integrated photovoltaic buildings through technological and model innovation. We believe that as technology continues to advance and the market matures, BIPV will become a vital force in driving urban green development. Zhongbu Qingtian will work with industry partners to embrace this promising future together.
