Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) System Testing and ...

22 Jul.,2024

 

Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) System Testing and ...

The increasing popularity of building integrated photovoltaic systems

As solar photovoltaic (PV) technology matures it is increasingly being integrated into building construction and used to replace conventional materials in parts of the building envelope such as roofs, curtain walls, and windows. As conventional roof installations continue to increase and PV prices decrease, Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) are gaining popularity. Architects are now integrating the technology into their designs for the aesthetic value while helping building owners save on their cost of electricity with environmentally friendly generation. Furthermore, BIPV is a means to achieve compliance with energy conservation and sustainability requirements and helps in achieving a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Building certification.

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What is BIPV?

BIPV are products incorporating photovoltaic modules that also function as a component of the building envelope, and have been designed for both the basic requirements for both photovoltaic products and construction materials they are intended to replace. BIPV products are intended for mounting integrally to the structure or protective surfaces of a building in one of two primary installation methods:

  • to serve as the roof, or as a major component of the roofing system of a building
  • to serve as part of a structural or non-structural component of a building, such as a curtain wall, facade, atrium, or skylight.

BIPV systems compliance to various safety standards 

Currently, BIPV systems and their mounting means for roofing systems are evaluated separately for compliance to:

  • UL , the Outline of Investigation for Building-Integrated Photovoltaic Roof Coverings
  • UL -1, the Standard for Photovoltaic (PV) Module Safety Qualification - Part 1: Requirements for Construction
  • UL -2, the Standard for Photovoltaic (PV) Module Safety Qualification - Part 2: Requirements for Testing
  • UL 790, the Standard for Flat-Plate Photovoltaic Modules and Panels
  • UL 580, the Standard for Tests for Uplift Resistance of Roof Assemblies

The safety evaluation includes electrical, temperature, mechanical loading, wind resistance, impact and fire tests. The product&#;s output wiring system is also investigated for conformance with the provisions of the National Electrical Code (NEC). Having one standard (UL ) to address all aspects of concern &#; electrical, fire, wind resistance, weather protection, impact resistance and durability &#; of this new type of building material makes it far easier to demonstrate code compliance.

Safety certification for BIPV products is more stringent than for conventional PV modules

The National Electrical Code (NEC), International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC) require that all PV products that are intended to be installed on or around a building must be certified by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL). Because of these Code requirements, all BIPV products are subjected to the same electrical certification and safety testing standards as conventional PV modules and more.

Product installation concerns for PV panel systems include:

  • Utility compatibility and interaction
  • Environment (e.g., indoor, outdoor, hazardous location)
  • Maximum number of modules (affecting voltage/current/short-circuit)
  • Fire exposure ratings
  • Wind and snow loading
  • Mounting and attachment
  • Grounding and bonding
  • Shading

Since some BIPV are designed to directly replace roofing material, a BIPV system must be evaluated not only as a PV module but also as a roofing material with additional Code required testing such as:

  • Fire testing *
  • Impact testing
  • Wind resistance
  • Wind driven rain
  • Environmental testing for conditions like:
    • Temperature
    • Humidity

Why UL Solutions for building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) system testing and certification

Integration of PV systems into building products and architectural designs is growing. UL Solutions' safety science leadership, regulatory expertise and experience in the building and solar industries uniquely position us as the partner of choice for testing and certification of BIPV products into the building envelope.

* The fire testing includes those tests performed under the Solar PV Module safety standard (UL ) and additional tests that are normally applied to roofing materials (UL 790).

Top BIPV Manufacturers Update

Tesla, Inc.

Based in Palo Alto, California, Tesla, Inc. was founded in and has since become a household name in the renewable energy sector. Tesla&#;s BIPV product range includes the innovative Solar Roof, which integrates solar cells into roof shingles, providing both aesthetic appeal and high energy efficiency. The Solar Roof is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions and comes with a lifetime of the house warranty, making it a durable and long-lasting solution.

Tesla&#;s advantage lies in its strong brand presence and technological innovation. The company&#;s expertise in electric vehicles and battery storage complements its solar products, offering a comprehensive energy solution for consumers. Tesla&#;s Solar Roof not only generates electricity but also seamlessly blends with various architectural styles, making it a popular choice for homeowners looking to invest in integrated PV panels.

Hanergy Holding Group

Hanergy Holding Group, founded in and headquartered in Beijing, China, is a leading player in the BIPV market. The company specializes in thin-film solar panels, which are highly efficient and flexible. Hanergy&#;s BIPV solutions include solar roofs, solar walls, and solar windows, catering to a wide range of building applications. Their products are known for their lightweight design and high conversion efficiency, making them suitable for both new constructions and retrofits.

One of Hanergy&#;s key advantages is its focus on research and development, which has led to numerous innovations in BIPV technology. The company&#;s extensive global presence and strategic partnerships enable it to offer customized solutions tailored to different climatic conditions and architectural requirements. Hanergy&#;s commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency drives its continuous growth in the BIPV solar panels industry.

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Solaria Corporation

Solaria Corporation, headquartered in Fremont, California, was established in and has made significant strides in the BIPV market. The company offers high-performance solar modules that are designed for integration into various building elements such as windows, facades, and roofs. Solaria&#;s PowerXT series is particularly notable for its high power output and sleek appearance, making it ideal for residential and commercial applications.

Solaria&#;s strength lies in its patented cell design and module technology, which enhance the efficiency and aesthetic appeal of its products. The company&#;s focus on quality and innovation has earned it a strong reputation in the building integrated photovoltaics sector. Solaria&#;s commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon footprints aligns with the growing demand for green building solutions, positioning it as a top choice for BIPV solar panel manufacturers.

Onyx Solar (Spain)

Founded in and headquartered in Ávila, Spain, Onyx Solar specializes in transparent BIPV solutions. The company offers a wide range of products including photovoltaic glass for facades, skylights, and windows, which combine energy generation with natural lighting. Onyx Solar&#;s products are renowned for their aesthetic versatility, allowing architects to incorporate solar technology into buildings without compromising design.

Onyx Solar&#;s advantage lies in its innovative approach to integrating solar technology into everyday building materials. Their solutions not only generate clean energy but also contribute to thermal and acoustic insulation, enhancing overall building efficiency. Onyx Solar&#;s focus on sustainability and cutting-edge technology has made it a leader in the BIPV industry, with projects spanning across various continents.

Ertex Solar (Austria)

Ertex Solar, based in Amstetten, Austria, has been a pioneer in the BIPV industry since its establishment in . The company specializes in custom-made photovoltaic solutions for building facades and roofs, offering products that are both functional and visually appealing. Ertex Solar&#;s BIPV modules are known for their high quality and performance, making them a preferred choice for architects and builders.

The company&#;s strength lies in its ability to provide tailored solutions that meet specific architectural and energy requirements. Ertex Solar&#;s focus on innovation and design flexibility allows for the seamless integration of solar technology into various building structures. Their commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency further enhances their reputation as a top BIPV manufacturer.

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