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Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) refers to the integration of solar modules into a building’s envelope, such as roofs, facades, or railings. Unlike conventional PV systems, BIPV modules replace building materials and serve a dual purpose: power generation and structural protection. As a result, BIPV improves not only energy efficiency but also the aesthetics and sustainability of buildings.
There are various types of building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) modules, including:
Roof Tiles & Roof Modules: They replace traditional roof tiles or are integrated directly into the roof.
Facade modules: Solar modules that are installed as cladding or integrated into glass facades.
Window modules: Partially transparent PV glass panels used as windows or skylights.
Sun protection systems: Solar louvers, blinds, or canopies that generate electricity and provide shade.
Custom solutions: Custom solar panels, e.g., for balconies, noise barriers, or pergolas.
BIPV modules combine aesthetics with functionality and enable the efficient use of building surfaces for energy generation.
A BIPV system installed on a typical single-family home (roof area approx. 30–40 m²) can generate approximately 5,000 to 7,000 kWh of solar power generate. This is usually sufficient for:
the the total power requirement of a 4-person household, including lighting, cooking, laundry, and refrigeration
250–300 loads of laundry, 150 dishwasher cycles, watching TV and working on a laptop for 2–3 hours a day
the operation of a Heat pump for heating and hot water (in well-insulated homes)
loading a Electric cars for approximately 10,000–12,000 km per year (with surplus electricity)
The installation of BIPV modules requires careful planning and collaboration between architects, structural engineers, and PV specialists. Since BIPV modules are an integral part of the building envelope, they must meet both the aesthetic and functional requirements of the building. This includes considerations regarding watertightness, thermal insulation, and structural integrity.
The orientation and pitch of BIPV modules have a significant impact on their energy output. Modules with an optimal pitch (about 30–35 degrees in Central Europe) achieve the highest energy yield. Facade modules, on the other hand, usually have a lower pitch but can also be efficient when integrated vertically into buildings with high insolation.
3S Swiss Solar Solutions AG offers a wide range of BIPV products, including:
3S solar roof: A modular solar roofing system that replaces traditional roof tiles and allows for the seamless integration of PV modules.
3S solar facade: Aesthetic solar facade solutions that are available in a variety of colors and designs and both generate energy and enhance the building's appearance.
3S solar balcony railings: An innovative solution for balconies in which the railings serve as solar modules. It combines safety and aesthetic design with the ability to generate solar power. The modules are active on both sides and can capture additional energy through reflections off facades.
Customized solutions: Customized BIPV solutions tailored specifically to the needs and design of each construction project.
The energy efficiency of BIPV modules depends on various factors, including the type of PV material used (e.g., monocrystalline, polycrystalline, thin-film), the orientation and pitch of the modules, and local climatic conditions. Modern BIPV modules offer efficiency levels comparable to those of conventional PV modules. For example, the modules from 3S Swiss Solar Solutions AG offer high efficiency and are designed to meet the specific requirements of BIPV projects.
The initial cost of BIPV modules may be higher than that of conventional building materials. However, it is important to consider the long-term benefits, such as energy savings, lower power costs, and potential incentives. Furthermore, BIPV modules replace other building materials, which can offset the overall cost of the construction project. Products from 3S Swiss Solar Solutions AG offer good value for money and high quality.
In Switzerland, there are several incentive programs for building-integrated photovoltaic systems (BIPV):
One-time federal payment (EIV): For photovoltaic systems with a capacity of 2 kWp or more. The subsidy covers up to 30% of the investment costs.
More information about the EIV from the Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE)
Pronovo AG: Responsible for processing grant applications and disbursing the one-time payment.
Visit the Pronovo website
State and local funding programs: Depending on the location, additional subsidies, tax breaks, or grants may be available.
Overview on Swissolar
At the European level, the EU supports BIPV projects through research and innovation programs:
Horizon Europe: EU funding program for research and innovation, including BIPV projects.
Learn more about Horizon Europe
LIFE Program: EU funding for environmental and climate protection projects, including those in the field of renewable energy.
Information about the LIFE Program
BIPV modules are designed to have a long life, comparable to that of conventional PV modules. They typically have a life of 25 years or more. Products from 3S Swiss Solar Solutions AG are characterized by their robustness and durability and are specifically designed for long-term use in building envelopes.
BIPV modules require relatively little maintenance. However, it is important to conduct regular inspections to ensure that the modules are clean and free of damage. Cleaning is usually handled by rain, but in areas with low rainfall or high levels of pollution, manual cleaning may be necessary. Maintenance contracts with specialized companies can help ensure optimal module performance.
Yes, BIPV modules can be integrated into both new and existing buildings. However, when retrofitting an existing building, careful planning is required to ensure that the modules fit into the existing structure both aesthetically and functionally. Products such as the 3S solar energy system from 3S Swiss Solar Solutions AG offer flexible solutions suitable for both new construction and renovations.
When planning a BIPV project, the following points should be taken into account:
Architectural integration: The modules must be aesthetically compatible with the building's design.
Technical Specifications: Selecting the right modules based on efficiency, performance, and local climatic conditions.
Regulatory requirements: Compliance with local building codes and standards.
Cost-effectiveness: Cost-benefit analysis and consideration of funding opportunities.
Collaboration: Close collaboration between architects, civil engineers, and PV specialists to ensure optimal integration.
Yes, integrating a building-integrated photovoltaic system (BIPV) into facades presents several technical and design challenges:
Ventilation: Proper rear ventilation is important to prevent heat buildup and ensure the modules' performance.
weather protection: The building envelope must be reliably sealed against rain, snow, and wind.
Load capacity: The facade must be structurally designed to support the additional weight of the modules on a permanent basis.
Design: The modules should blend harmoniously into the facade from an architectural standpoint.
Fire Safety: The structure must comply with applicable fire safety standards, such as those regarding fire resistance, fire load, and flame spread. In Switzerland, the VKF guidelines apply; in Europe, the EN 13501-1 standard, among others, applies.
3S solar facade are designed to meet these requirements—in terms of technology, design, and safety.
Choosing the right specialist partner is crucial to the success of your BIPV project. Our network of specialist partners offers you everything under one roof—from initial consultation and feasibility studies to space optimization and professional implementation. Use our specialist partner map to search specifically for a specialist partner in your region and find the right expert for your project. Visit our specialist partner map and launch your BIPV project with the best specialists by your side!
Yes, BIPV modules are primarily made of glass, aluminum, and silicon, all of which are recyclable. There are specialized recycling programs for end-of-life PV modules.
An integrated solar balcony railing completely replaces a conventional balcony or patio railing while also generating solar power. The solar modules serve both as a fall protection barrier and as a power generator.
3S solar balcony railings can generate about 50% of a household’s electricity needs. The exact output depends on the length of the railing, its orientation, and local sunlight conditions.
Yes. Thanks to the accordion principle, the spacing between posts, modules, and design elements is flexible. Handrails, rails, and posts are available in custom colors, and with additional infill bars or panels, any railing dimension can be achieved.
Yes. The 3S solar balcony railings meet the strict requirements for barrier glazing in accordance with DIN 18008-4:2013. The modules are made of laminated semi-tempered solar glass.
Overhead solutions refer to solar systems that serve both as a protective roof and as a power plant. 3S’s certified glass-glass solar modules are ideal for open structures, carports, parking canopies, pergolas, or patios. They enable efficient multi-use: they provide reliable weather and sun protection for vehicles or people while simultaneously generating CO₂-neutral electricity directly on the surface being used.
Safety is the top priority for overhead glazing. The 3S Overhead Module is a glass-glass module that has been specifically tested and approved for this purpose. It meets the strict Swiss building and safety standards for overhead construction, such as the tests in accordance with SIA 2057 as well as international standards IEC 61215 and IEC 61730. The module consists of a sturdy combination of tempered glass (TVG), which minimizes the risk of glass breakage and ensures maximum protection for people and vehicles below in the event of an emergency.
To guarantee investors and builders maximum planning certainty and value retention, 3S offers exceptionally long-term warranty commitments:
product guarantee: 10 years.
weather resistance guarantee: 40 years.
output guarantee: 1 year at 97% of minimum output, as well as a linear warranty of to 80% over 25 years the minimum output.
The 3S overhead module uses advanced, double-sided solar technology (bifacial cells). This means that the module not only captures direct sunlight from above, but also diffuse and reflected light from below (e.g., light reflected from light-colored asphalt, vehicles, or the patio floor). With excellent Bifaciality factor of approximately 80.8% (Performance) The system generates significantly higher yields compared to conventional single-sided modules, which significantly shortens the payback period for investors.
