According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), buildings and the construction sector combined are responsible for nearly 40% of total direct and indirect CO2 emissions.
Emerging technologies are making it possible to mitigate that impact by turning buildings into power plants, a concept called building-integrated solar power (BIPV). Rack-mounted PV arrays on rooftops are the most common way to generate solar power on buildings, but this solution has some drawbacks.
Some consider rack-mounted PVs as eyesores, particularly when considered for historic buildings. This can be a barrier to wider adoption in urban architecture.
Other options including monocrystalline solar panels, dye-sensitized solar cells, and perovskites make it possible to alter the color of solar power generating cells. This makes them more attractive than conventional PVs and suitable for use on facades and walls. In some formulations, these materials can be made semi-transparent so that they can be used for fenestration.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Dec 9, 2020
Investors want building resiliency plans and risk mitigation practices
Owners should assess risk, insurance coverage, and ability to withstand disasters.
Codes and Standards | Dec 4, 2020
OSHA cites more than 200 employers for COVID-19 violations
Agency releases guidance on lessons learned from pandemic inspections.
Codes and Standards | Dec 1, 2020
Pandemic spurs nearly 16 million people to move from major cities
Most of the movement seems permanent.
Codes and Standards | Nov 30, 2020
USGBC ready to catalyze LEED Positive future
New programs, updates will spur shift to regenerative strategies.
Codes and Standards | Nov 30, 2020
Updated spec for self-adhering flashing surrounding exterior fenestration products released
FGIA document was last updated in 2013.
Codes and Standards | Nov 30, 2020
Finalized 2021 Energy Code leaves out future-proofing provision
Appeals process nixed requirement for residential electrification readiness.
Codes and Standards | Nov 23, 2020
GBCI turns over GRESB ownership to global investment firm
Organization assesses sustainability performance of real estate and infrastructure portfolios and assets.
Codes and Standards | Nov 23, 2020
New industrywide clay brick EPD launched
Contributes toward LEED v.4.0 and v.4.1 materials and resources requirements.
Codes and Standards | Nov 19, 2020
The ‘15-minute city’ could transform municipal planning
Concept aims for car-free living.
Codes and Standards | Nov 18, 2020
Commissioning study finds median energy savings of 3% to 16%
Berkeley Lab examines results of commissioning across building types.
