The Hume Architectural team at Hume Building Products have collaborated with Smart Commercial Solar in the past to deliver Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BiPV) projects—an innovative and sustainable energy solution, where function meets aesthetics. In this blog, we discuss the latest developments in BiPV and the key benefits for clients.
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Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BiPV) replace conventional building materials in roofs, skylights, façades, balustrades, and other structural elements. By integrating photovoltaic technology directly into the building envelope, BiPV provides significant cost savings on traditional materials and labour.
At the core of BiPV is photovoltaic glass—typically made from laminated or insulated units with embedded PV cells. These modules can be fully customised in size, colour, transparency, and shape to meet unique design and performance requirements. BiPV offers both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits, making it ideal for new builds and refurbishments.
Building-integrated photovoltaics (BiPV) are ideal for clients looking to seamlessly integrate solar technology into their structures. The most suited clients include:
European countries currently lead global BiPV innovation, with notable projects in:
Nordic Choice Hotel, Solna, Sweden
Hume offer a wide range of solutions in the BiPV space, including:
the coal loader, north sydney, australia
Innovative glass with quantum dots layer is the first and only solution on a global scale which, thanks to the use of a coating consisting of quantum dots on the glass, allows to generate free electricity from the sun, while limiting harmful UV and IR radiation. Glass with quantum coating has very good parameters of light transmission, while maintaining a high thermal insulation coefficient. This innovative solution reduces overheating of rooms, as well as the effect of the so-called urban heat Island (UHI). It is a breakthrough in the energy balance of cities, with a wide range of application possibilities, such as:
Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BiPV) are a game-changer in the global push for decarbonisation. By embedding solar technology directly into urban infrastructure, BiPV solutions contribute to sustainability in several ways:
Reducing Fossil Fuel Dependence: BiPV enables buildings to generate their own renewable energy, reducing reliance on coal, gas, and other carbon-intensive sources. This decentralised energy production helps cities transition toward net-zero emissions.
Enhancing Energy Efficiency: Unlike traditional solar panels, BiPV integrates seamlessly into building materials—such as façades, windows, and roofs—allowing structures to produce electricity without requiring additional space. This dual functionality improves energy efficiency while maintaining architectural aesthetics.
Supporting Net-Zero Cities: Studies suggest that widespread adoption of BiPV could help cities achieve near-zero energy status by 2030. By embedding solar technology into urban landscapes, BiPV reduces the carbon footprint of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
Urban Sustainability & Smart Cities: BiPV solutions complement nature-based designs, creating greener cities that harmonise with the environment. Innovations such as coloured solar glass and transparent PV panels allow architects to integrate solar power without compromising design integrity.