A recent multi-criteria study evaluated the potential for solar energy deployment on urban surfaces, with a focus on enhancing sustainability, resilience, and energy efficiency in cities. By considering various urban surfaces—such as rooftops, facades, and infrastructure—this comprehensive approach underscores the transformative potential of solar technology in urban environments. Key assessment areas include environmental impact, localized energy generation, compatibility with existing infrastructure, community engagement, and support for policy development. These insights demonstrate the value of integrating solar energy in urban planning, presenting actionable strategies to address energy needs sustainably.

Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) represent a promising solution for reducing energy demand in urban areas, as explored in the study Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) of BIPV in Europe. This paper highlights the significant potential of BIPV systems to transform building facades into energy generators, but it also discusses the financial and technological barriers that need to be overcome. One of the central focuses of the research is the calculation of the LCOE, which evaluates the economic feasibility of BIPV across European capitals.

A recent study has investigated the integration of solar energy in urban areas, specifically focusing on Norway. By leveraging building surfaces to harness solar power, a range of advantages can be achieved, including minimal environmental impact, localized power generation, synergy with hydropower, water management solutions, enhanced power production, aesthetic appeal, and citizen engagement. These factors collectively highlight the significance of solar energy integration in Norwegian buildings as a crucial pathway towards achieving a greener and more energy-efficient future.

A recent study comparing the carbon footprint and energy efficiency of solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies produced in China, the EU, and the USA has revealed significant insights into how much CO2 these technologies emit throughout their life cycles. The findings provide essential guidance for policymakers and the solar industry in determining which technologies and regions offer the most sustainable production methods.

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is a cornerstone of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. Operated by the Alliance for Sustainable Energy LLC, NREL is dedicated to advancing renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies through innovative research and collaboration.

Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) represent a crucial component in achieving nearly zero-energy cities, as examined in the paper The Contribution of Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) to the Concept of Nearly Zero-Energy Cities in Europe. This paper delves into the role of BIPV in urban energy transitions and highlights both its potential and the challenges in widespread adoption across Europe. BIPV systems can transform buildings into energy producers by integrating solar panels directly into the architectural elements of facades and roofs, a significant step towards reducing cities' carbon footprints.

The global transition towards sustainability has increased the demand for energy-efficient and environmentally friendly technologies in construction. One of the most promising innovations in this domain is Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) systems. These systems, unlike traditional solar panels, are seamlessly integrated into the structure of a building—whether as façades, roofs, or other architectural elements. This integration allows BIPV systems to fulfill two critical functions: generating clean energy and serving as part of the building envelope.