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U.S. Department of Energy
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Optimal building-integrated photovoltaic applications

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/132712· OSTI ID:132712
;  [1]
  1. Kiss and Co. Architects, New York, NY (United States)
Photovoltaic (solar electric) modules are clean, safe and efficient devices that have long been considered a logical material for use in buildings. Recent technological advances have made PVs suitable for direct integration into building construction. PV module size, cost, appearance and reliability have advanced to the point where they can function within the architectural parameters of conventional building materials. A building essentially provides free land and structural support for a PV module, and the module in turn displaces standard building components. This report identifies the highest-value applications for PVs in buildings. These systems should be the first markets for BIPV products in the commercial buildings, and should remain an important high-end market for the foreseeable future.
Research Organization:
National Renewable Energy Lab., Golden, CO (United States); Kiss and Co. Architects, New York, NY (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
DOE Contract Number:
AC36-83CH10093;
OSTI ID:
132712
Report Number(s):
NREL/TP--472-20339; ON: DE95013150
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English