The BIPV (Building Integrated Photovoltaics) market has expanded rapidly due to growing demand for sustainable energy solutions that integrate seamlessly into modern architecture. Below is a non-exhaustive list of top BIPV manufacturers:
AGC Inc.
Headquarters: Tokyo, JapanWebsite: agc.com
BIPV Offerings:
Sunjoule™ BIPV Glass: AGC Inc. offers Sunjoule™, a range of photovoltaic glazing solutions that integrate solar cells into glass panels suitable for building facades, windows, skylights, and curtain walls.
Features:
- Transparency Levels: Offers various transparency options to balance natural light and energy generation.
- Customization: Glass size, color, and patterns can be customized to meet architectural design requirements.
- Integration: Compatible with standard glazing systems, facilitating seamless integration into building designs.
Ascent Solar
Headquarters: Thornton, Colorado, USAWebsite: ascentsolar.com
BIPV Offerings:
CIGS Thin-Film Solar Modules: Ascent Solar specializes in flexible, lightweight Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) thin-film solar panels.
Applications:
- Building Surfaces: Suitable for curved or non-traditional building surfaces where rigid panels are impractical.
- Architectural Elements: Can be integrated into roofing materials, facades, and shading structures.
Advantages:
- Flexibility: Allows for creative architectural designs.
- Lightweight: Adds minimal weight to structures, ideal for retrofitting existing buildings.
Avancis
Headquarters: Munich, GermanyWebsite: avancis.de
BIPV Offerings:
PowerMax® SKALA Modules: Avancis produces CIS (Copper Indium Selenide) thin-film solar modules specifically designed for facade integration.
Features:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Uniform black appearance without visible cell structures or busbars.
- Customization: Offers different sizes and installation options for design flexibility.
- Performance: High energy yield under various lighting conditions, including low light.
BIPVco
Headquarters: Newport, Wales, United KingdomWebsite: bipvco.com
BIPV Offerings:
Flextron™ Solar Roofing Solutions: BIPVco develops integrated solar roofing systems using flexible thin-film photovoltaic laminates.
Applications:
- Metal Roofs: Designed to bond directly to metal roofing sheets during manufacturing or on-site.
- Retrofit Solutions: Can be applied to existing roofs without significant structural modifications.
Advantages:
- Seamless Integration: Maintains the profile of the roof without protrusions.
- Durability: Resistant to environmental factors, ensuring long-term performance.
Canadian Solar
Headquarters: Guelph, Ontario, CanadaWebsite: canadiansolar.com
BIPV Offerings:
BIPV Modules and Solutions: Canadian Solar offers BIPV modules designed for integration into building elements.
Products:
- Solar Roof Tiles: Mimic traditional roofing materials while generating electricity.
- Glazing Solutions: Solar glass for facades and windows.
Benefits:
- Aesthetic Integration: Maintains the building's architectural integrity.
- Energy Efficiency: Contributes to the building's energy generation without additional space requirements.
ClearVue Technologies
Headquarters: Perth, AustraliaWebsite: clearvuepv.com
BIPV Offerings:
Clear Solar Glass: ClearVue develops transparent solar glazing that incorporates nano- and micro-particle technology to generate electricity.
Applications:
- Windows and Facades: Ideal for high-rise buildings, skylights, and curtain walls.
- Agricultural Use: Greenhouse glazing that generates power while promoting plant growth.
Features:
- High Transparency: Maintains clarity similar to standard glass.
- Energy Generation: Converts ultraviolet and infrared light into electricity while allowing visible light to pass through.
DAS Energy
Headquarters: Wiener Neustadt, AustriaWebsite: das-energy.com
BIPV Offerings:
Flexible Photovoltaic Modules: DAS Energy produces lightweight, glass-free solar panels combining fiberglass and polymer materials.
Applications:
- Facades and Roofing: Suitable for integration into building envelopes due to their flexibility.
- Noise Barriers: Can be used on soundproof walls along highways.
Advantages:
- Durability: Resistant to environmental stressors like hail and wind.
- Easy Installation: Lightweight modules reduce structural load and simplify installation.
Dyaqua
Headquarters: Vicenza, ItalyWebsite: dyaqua.it
BIPV Offerings:
Invisible Solar Products: Dyaqua creates solar modules that mimic traditional building materials such as clay tiles, stone, concrete, and wood.
Applications:
- Historic Buildings: Ideal for preserving the aesthetic of heritage sites while adding solar capabilities.
- Aesthetic-Sensitive Projects: Projects where visual impact is a concern.
Features:
- Appearance: Solar cells are concealed within materials that look and feel traditional.
- Functionality: Despite their appearance, they efficiently generate electricity.
Ennogie
Headquarters: Aarhus, DenmarkWebsite: ennogie.com
BIPV Offerings:
Integrated Solar Roof System: Ennogie provides a complete roofing solution where the roof itself is a solar panel.
Features:
- All-in-One Solution: Replaces traditional roofing materials.
- Sleek Design: Uniform surface with no visible mounting systems.
- Scalability: Modular system allows for covering large roof areas.
Enel Green Power
Headquarters: Rome, ItalyWebsite: enelgreenpower.com
BIPV Offerings:
BIPV Projects and Solutions: Enel Green Power engages in BIPV projects, offering customized solutions for integrating solar technology into buildings.
Services:
- Project Development: From design to installation of BIPV systems.
- Innovative Technologies: Collaborates on developing new BIPV materials and applications.
Focus Areas:
- Sustainability: Promotes energy-efficient buildings.
- Innovation: Invests in research for advanced BIPV solutions.
Ergosun
Headquarters: Calgary, Alberta, CanadaWebsite: ergosun.com
BIPV Offerings:
Solar Integrated Roof Tiles: Ergosun produces concrete roofing tiles with embedded monocrystalline solar cells.
Features:
- Aesthetics: Tiles resemble traditional concrete tiles, maintaining the building's appearance.
- Durability: Designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.
- Ease of Installation: Can be installed by standard roofing contractors without special training.
Ertex Solar
Headquarters: Amstetten, AustriaWebsite: ertex-solar.at
BIPV Offerings:
Customized Photovoltaic Glass Solutions: Ertex Solar specializes in tailor-made PV modules for integration into building elements.
Applications:
- Facades, Skylights, Balustrades, and Canopies.
Customization:
- Size and Shape: Modules can be produced in various dimensions.
- Transparency: Options range from transparent to opaque.
- Design: Incorporation of colors, patterns, and images.
Eterbright Solar
Headquarters: Tainan City, TaiwanWebsite: eterbright.com
BIPV Offerings:
CIGS Thin-Film Modules: Eterbright manufactures flexible CIGS solar modules designed for BIPV applications.
Features:
- Flexibility: Allows integration on curved surfaces and unconventional architectures.
- Low-Light Performance: Efficient energy generation even in diffuse light conditions.
Applications:
- Roofing Materials, Facades, and Building Surfaces.
Exasun
Headquarters: The Hague, NetherlandsWebsite: exasun.com
BIPV Offerings:
X-Roof and X-Tile Systems: Exasun develops solar roof tiles and facade panels that integrate seamlessly with building designs.
Features:
- High Efficiency: Uses monocrystalline cells with high energy output.
- Durability: Designed to last over 30 years with minimal degradation.
- Aesthetic Integration: Available in different colors and finishes to match building styles.
First Solar
Headquarters: Tempe, Arizona, USAWebsite: firstsolar.com
BIPV Offerings:
Thin-Film PV Modules: First Solar is known for Cadmium Telluride (CdTe) thin-film solar panels.
Applications:
- Potential for BIPV: While primarily used in large-scale installations, their thin-film technology can be adapted for BIPV applications.
Advantages:
- Low-Light Performance: Efficient in high temperatures and diffuse light conditions.
- Environmental Profile: Uses less semiconductor material compared to crystalline silicon panels.
Flisom
Headquarters: Zurich, SwitzerlandWebsite: flisom.com
BIPV Offerings:
Flexible CIGS Solar Modules: Flisom produces ultra-lightweight, flexible solar panels.
Applications:
- Roofing Materials: Can be integrated into metal roofs, membranes, and other roofing solutions.
- Facades and Cladding: Suitable for vertical surfaces and complex shapes.
Features:
- Aesthetics: Offers sleek, uniform surfaces without visible cell structures.
- Ease of Installation: Lightweight nature reduces structural requirements.
GAF Energy
Headquarters: San Jose, California, USAWebsite: gaf.energy
BIPV Offerings:
Timberline Solar™: GAF Energy offers a nailable solar shingle that integrates with roofing materials.
Features:
- Ease of Installation: Installs like a regular shingle using a nail gun.
- Aesthetics: Low-profile design blends with traditional roofing.
- Durability: Built to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Integration:
- Compatibility: Works seamlessly with GAF's existing roofing products.
Glass to Power
Headquarters: Milan, ItalyWebsite: glasstopower.com
BIPV Offerings:
Luminescent Solar Concentrator (LSC) Panels: Glass to Power develops transparent photovoltaic glass using nanotechnology.
Applications:
- Building Facades and Windows: Allows for energy generation without compromising transparency.
Features:
- High Transparency: Over 80% transparency similar to standard glass.
- Energy Efficiency: Converts non-visible light into electricity.
Hanergy
Headquarters: Beijing, ChinaWebsite: hanergy.com
BIPV Offerings:
Thin-Film Solar Solutions: Hanergy focuses on CIGS and GaAs thin-film technologies.
Products:
- Solar Roof Tiles: Integrate with various roofing materials.
- Solar Facades and Curtain Walls: Customized solutions for building exteriors.
Advantages:
- Flexibility: Thin-film modules can conform to different surfaces.
- Lightweight: Suitable for buildings with weight constraints.
Hanwha Q CELLS
Headquarters: Seoul, South KoreaWebsite: q-cells.com
BIPV Offerings:
Q.HOME BIPV Solutions: Hanwha Q CELLS provides BIPV modules that can be integrated into building structures.
Applications:
- Facades, Roofs, and Shading Systems.
Features:
- High Efficiency: Utilizes advanced cell technology for maximum energy yield.
- Design Flexibility: Offers various sizes and configurations.
Heliatek
Headquarters: Dresden, GermanyWebsite: heliatek.com
BIPV Offerings:
HeliaFilm® Organic Solar Films: Heliatek produces ultra-lightweight, flexible organic photovoltaic films.
Applications:
- Facades, Windows, Roofs, and Membranes.
Features:
- Transparency Options: Available in different levels of transparency.
- Low-Light Performance: Generates power even under diffuse light.
- Environmental Impact: Uses eco-friendly materials in production.
HyET Solar
Headquarters: Arnhem, NetherlandsWebsite: hyetsolar.com
BIPV Offerings:
Powerfoil: HyET Solar manufactures lightweight, flexible solar foils based on amorphous silicon technology.
Applications:
- Large Surfaces: Ideal for industrial roofs, facades, and other extensive surfaces.
Features:
- Flexibility: Can be applied to curved surfaces.
- Lightweight: Reduces structural load on buildings.
ISSOL SA
Headquarters: Liège, BelgiumWebsite: issol.eu
BIPV Offerings:
Architectural BIPV Solutions: ISSOL specializes in custom photovoltaic glass for building envelopes.
Applications:
- Facades, Roofs, Skylights, and Canopies.
Customization:
- Design Integration: Works closely with architects to meet design specifications.
- Color and Transparency: Offers a range of visual options.
JinkoSolar
Headquarters: Shanghai, ChinaWebsite: jinkosolar.com
BIPV Offerings:
BIPV Modules and Solutions: JinkoSolar provides solar modules suitable for building integration.
Products:
- Solar Facades and Roof Tiles: Designed to replace conventional building materials.
Features:
- High Efficiency: Utilizes advanced cell technologies.
- Durability: Built to withstand environmental stressors.
Kaneka Corporation
Headquarters: Osaka, JapanWebsite: kaneka.co.jp
BIPV Offerings:
Thin-Film Amorphous Silicon Solar Cells: Kaneka develops high-quality thin-film solar cells for BIPV.
Applications:
- Facades, Roofing Materials, and Glass Modules.
Features:
- Aesthetic Flexibility: Offers semi-transparent options.
- Temperature Performance: Maintains efficiency in high-temperature environments.
Kyocera Corporation
Headquarters: Kyoto, JapanWebsite: kyocera.com
BIPV Offerings:
BIPV Modules: Kyocera provides solar modules designed for integration into building materials.
Applications:
- Roofing Systems and Facade Panels.
Features:
- Reliability: Known for high-quality and durable products.
- Design Options: Offers modules that blend with architectural elements.
Meyer Burger
Headquarters: Thun, SwitzerlandWebsite: meyerburger.com
BIPV Offerings:
Solar Tiles and Modules: Meyer Burger produces high-efficiency heterojunction (HJT) solar cells and modules.
Applications:
- Roof Integration: Solar tiles designed to replace traditional roofing materials.
Features:
- High Performance: Offers some of the highest efficiency rates in the industry.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Sleek design for seamless roof integration.
Midsummer AB
Headquarters: Stockholm, SwedenWebsite: midsummer.se
BIPV Offerings:
SLIM and WAVE Modules: Midsummer manufactures lightweight, flexible CIGS solar panels.
Applications:
- Metal Roofs, Membranes, and Facades.
Features:
- Flexibility: Can be adapted to various surface types.
- Low Weight: Ideal for structures with weight limitations.
Mitrex
Headquarters: Toronto, CanadaWebsite: mitrex.com
BIPV Offerings:
Solar Facades and Cladding: Mitrex offers solar-integrated cladding systems that can mimic various materials like stone, wood, or custom designs.
Products:
- Solar Glass: For windows and curtain walls.
- Solar Roof Panels: Integrated roofing solutions.
Features:
- Customization: High degree of design flexibility.
- Durability: Resistant to weather and environmental factors.
NanoFlex Power Corporation
Headquarters: Scottsdale, Arizona, USAWebsite: nanoflexpower.com
BIPV Offerings:
Organic and Flexible PV Technologies: NanoFlex develops advanced photovoltaic technologies for BIPV applications.
Applications:
- Facades, Windows, and Non-Flat Surfaces.
Features:
- Flexibility: Suitable for complex architectural designs.
- Aesthetic Options: Can be semi-transparent or opaque.
Onyx Solar
Headquarters: Ávila, SpainWebsite: onyxsolar.com
BIPV Offerings:
Photovoltaic Glass Solutions: Onyx Solar offers customizable PV glass for various architectural applications.
Applications:
- Curtain Walls, Skylights, Canopies, and Flooring.
Features:
- Customization: Wide range of colors, sizes, and transparency levels.
- Multifunctional: Provides thermal and acoustic insulation in addition to energy generation.
Opvius
Headquarters: Nuremberg, GermanyWebsite: opvius.com
BIPV Offerings:
Organic Photovoltaic (OPV) Solutions: Opvius develops flexible and semi-transparent OPV modules.
Applications:
- Facades, Glazing, and Shading Systems.
Features:
- Design Flexibility: Can be produced in various shapes, sizes, and colors.
- Lightweight: Suitable for weight-sensitive structures.
Physee
Headquarters: Delft, NetherlandsWebsite: physee.eu
BIPV Offerings:
PowerWindow: Physee develops transparent energy-generating windows.
Features:
- Integration: Windows function as standard glazing while producing electricity.
- Smart Facades: Incorporates sensors and software to optimize building energy efficiency.
Applications:
- Commercial and Residential Buildings.
Polysolar
Headquarters: Cambridge, United KingdomWebsite: polysolar.co.uk
BIPV Offerings:
Transparent Photovoltaic Glass: Polysolar provides amorphous silicon and transparent PV glazing.
Applications:
- Facades, Balconies, Canopies, and Windows.
Features:
- Aesthetics: Offers various levels of transparency and colors.
- Versatility: Can be used in both new builds and retrofits.
REC Group
Headquarters: SingaporeWebsite: recgroup.com
BIPV Offerings:
BIPV Modules: REC Group offers solar panels that can be integrated into building materials.
Applications:
- Roofing and Facade Systems.
Features:
- High Efficiency: Utilizes advanced cell technology.
- Reliability: Known for durable and long-lasting products.
Roofit.Solar
Headquarters: Tallinn, EstoniaWebsite: roofit.solar
BIPV Offerings:
Metal Solar Roofs: Roofit.Solar combines traditional metal roofing with integrated solar cells.
Features:
- Aesthetic Integration: Looks like a standard metal roof.
- Durability: Resistant to harsh weather conditions.
- Efficiency: High energy output due to quality solar cells.
Saint-Gobain Solar
Headquarters: Courbevoie, FranceWebsite: saint-gobain.com
BIPV Offerings:
Solar Glazing Solutions: Saint-Gobain offers photovoltaic glass products for building integration.
Applications:
- Facades, Windows, and Skylights.
Features:
- Energy Efficiency: Enhances building performance by generating electricity and providing insulation.
- Design Options: Various levels of transparency and customization.
Schüco
Headquarters: Bielefeld, GermanyWebsite: schueco.com
BIPV Offerings:
BIPV Facade Systems: Schüco provides integrated photovoltaic solutions within their building envelope products.
Applications:
- Curtain Walls, Windows, and Shading Devices.
Features:
- System Integration: Compatible with Schüco's existing facade and window systems.
- Design Flexibility: Offers custom solutions to meet architectural requirements.
Sharp Solar
Headquarters: Osaka, JapanWebsite: sharp-solar.com
BIPV Offerings:
Solar Modules for BIPV: Sharp offers solar panels that can be integrated into building elements.
Applications:
- Roofing Systems and Facades.
Features:
- Efficiency: Known for reliable performance.
- Design Options: Modules available in different sizes and specifications.
SolarLab
Headquarters: Copenhagen, DenmarkWebsite: solarlab.dk
BIPV Offerings:
Custom-Designed Solar Facades: SolarLab specializes in aesthetic photovoltaic solutions for building exteriors.
Features:
- Artistic Integration: Collaborates with architects to create visually appealing designs.
- Material Options: Offers different colors, patterns, and finishes.
Applications:
- Facades, Balconies, and Shading Elements.
SolarWindow Technologies
Headquarters: Columbia, Maryland, USAWebsite: solarwindow.com
BIPV Offerings:
Electricity-Generating Coatings: SolarWindow develops transparent coatings that can be applied to glass surfaces.
Applications:
- Windows, Facades, and Building Glass.
Features:
- High Transparency: Maintains the look of standard glass.
- Energy Generation: Converts light into electricity without obstructing views.
Solaxess
Headquarters: Neuchâtel, SwitzerlandWebsite: solaxess.ch
BIPV Offerings:
Nanotechnology Films: Solaxess provides films that enable white and colored solar panels.
Applications:
- Building Facades and Cladding.
Features:
- Aesthetic Flexibility: Allows for solar panels in any color, including pure white.
- Architectural Integration: Panels blend seamlessly with building designs.
Solaria Corporation
Headquarters: Fremont, California, USAWebsite: solaria.com
BIPV Offerings:
PowerVision Glass: Solaria develops semi-transparent photovoltaic glass for architectural applications.
Applications:
- Facades, Skylights, and Windows.
Features:
- Design Options: Offers varying levels of transparency and tints.
- Energy Efficiency: Balances daylighting with solar power generation.
SoliTek
Headquarters: Vilnius, LithuaniaWebsite: solitek.eu
BIPV Offerings:
Glass-Glass Solar Panels: SoliTek manufactures durable solar panels suitable for integration into buildings.
Applications:
- Roofing Systems, Facades, and Noise Barriers.
Features:
- Long Lifespan: Offers extended warranties due to robust construction.
- Customization: Provides solutions tailored to specific project needs.
SolTech Energy
Headquarters: Stockholm, SwedenWebsite: soltechenergy.com
BIPV Offerings:
Solar Roof Tiles and Facades: SolTech Energy offers building materials that integrate solar cells.
Products:
- ShingEl: Solar shingle system that resembles traditional roofing.
- Facades: Solar cladding solutions.
Features:
- Aesthetic Design: Blends with various architectural styles.
- Energy Efficiency: Maximizes solar energy production.
SunPower
Headquarters: San Jose, California, USAWebsite: sunpower.com
BIPV Offerings:
Equinox System with InvisiMount: SunPower provides roof-integrated solar solutions with minimal visual impact.
Features:
- High Efficiency: Uses Maxeon® solar cell technology.
- Sleek Design: Low-profile mounting system.
Applications:
- Residential and Commercial Buildings.
SunRoof
Headquarters: Gothenburg, Sweden, and Warsaw, PolandWebsite: sunroof.se
BIPV Offerings:
Integrated Solar Roofs: SunRoof offers 2-in-1 solar roofs that function as both roofing material and solar panels.
Features:
- Aesthetic Integration: Modern design with a uniform surface.
- High Efficiency: Maximizes roof area for energy generation.
Services:
- Installation and Maintenance: Provides end-to-end solutions.
SunStyle
Headquarters: Paris, FranceWebsite: sunstyle.com
BIPV Offerings:
Solar Roof Tiles: SunStyle produces diamond-shaped solar tiles that interlock to form a waterproof roof surface.
Features:
- Unique Design: Distinctive pattern adds architectural interest.
- Durability: Made from tempered glass for strength and longevity.
Applications:
- Residential and Commercial Roofing.
SunTegra Solar
Headquarters: Port Chester, New York, USAWebsite: suntegrasolar.com
BIPV Offerings:
Solar Shingles and Tiles: SunTegra provides roof-integrated solar products.
Features:
- Easy Installation: Designed for quick integration with standard roofing materials.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Low-profile design blends with traditional roofs.
Applications:
- New Roofs and Retrofits.
Tesla
Headquarters: Palo Alto, California, USAWebsite: tesla.com/solarroof
BIPV Offerings:
Tesla Solar Roof: Tesla offers solar roof tiles that replace traditional roofing materials.
Features:
- Aesthetics: Tiles resemble conventional roofing materials like slate or textured glass.
- Durability: Engineered for strength and weather resistance.
- Integrated System: Pairs with Tesla Powerwall for energy storage.
Advantages:
- Efficiency: High-efficiency solar cells maximize energy production.
- Warranty: Offers extensive product and weatherization warranties.
Trina Solar
Headquarters: Changzhou, ChinaWebsite: trinasolar.com
BIPV Offerings:
BIPV Modules and Systems: Trina Solar provides solar panels suitable for building integration.
Products:
- Solar Facades, Roof Tiles, and Shading Systems.
Features:
- High Efficiency: Uses advanced cell technologies.
- Customization: Offers solutions tailored to project specifications.
Viridian Solar
Headquarters: Huntingdon, United KingdomWebsite: viridiansolar.com
BIPV Offerings:
Clearline Fusion: Viridian Solar offers roof-integrated solar panels that blend with conventional roofing.
Features:
- Aesthetic Integration: Low-profile design matches roof tiles.
- Ease of Installation: Compatible with various roofing materials.
Applications:
- Residential and Commercial Buildings.
Wuxi Suntech Power Co., Ltd.
Headquarters: Wuxi, ChinaWebsite: suntech-power.com
BIPV Offerings:
BIPV Solutions: Suntech provides solar modules for integration into building elements.
Applications:
- Facades, Roofing Systems, and Skylights.
Features:
- Efficiency: Employs high-performance solar cells.
- Design Flexibility: Offers customization to meet architectural needs.
ZNShine Solar
Headquarters: Changzhou, ChinaWebsite: znshine-solar.com
BIPV Offerings:
BIPV Glass Modules: ZNShine Solar produces double-glass solar panels suitable for building integration.
Applications:
- Facades, Canopies, and Roofs.
Features:
- Durability: Enhanced resistance to environmental factors.
- Aesthetics: Transparent and semi-transparent options available.