Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV)

India’s urban solar adoption is growing, but limited rooftop space in densely populated areas restricts the expansion of traditional rooftop solar systems (RTS). Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) is emerging as a land-neutral alternative, supported by recent installations and inclusion in schemes like the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana

BIPV: Towards Land-Neutral Solar Solutions in Urban India

The Growing Role of Urban Solar Energy

• Rooftop Solar (RTS) has surpassed 17 GW installed capacity in India (as of April 2025).
• Urban scalability is hindered due to limited shadow-free rooftop space, prompting exploration of BIPV as a complementary approach.

Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV)

Definition and Purpose:

• BIPV integrates solar modules directly into architectural components such as façades, windows, roofs, and railings.
• Serves dual functions: energy generation and structural utility (e.g., cladding, glass, shading devices).

Key Features:

• Replaces conventional materials (tiles, glass, etc.) with energy-generating alternatives.
• Maintains aesthetic and functional integration, customisable in colour, size, and shape.
• Facilitates natural lighting and insulation, reducing building energy consumption.

Applications and Benefits of BIPV in Urban Infrastructure

Architectural Integration:

• Façades: Semi-transparent panels as curtain walls, reducing heat entry.
• Roofs: Replacement of conventional tiles.
• Windows/Skylights: Transparent panels that allow daylight + solar power.
• Balconies and Canopies: Small-scale installations in space-limited homes.

Examples of BIPV in India

• Notable Installations:
  • CtrlS Datacenters, Navi Mumbai – 863 kWp across four façades.
  • Renewable Energy Museum, Kolkata – 2,000+ panel solar dome.
  • Jindal Steel & Power, Odisha – large-scale industrial BIPV system.
  • Railway stations in Vijayawada and Sahibabad have incorporated BIPV.

Challenges to Scaling BIPV

• High capital costs, limited domestic manufacturing.
• Policy gaps, absence of dedicated incentives.
• Lack of standardisation and integration in building regulations.
• Awareness deficit among architects and developers.

Policy Initiatives and International Best Practices

• India’s Efforts:
  • PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (2024): Allows BIPV installations with RTS subsidies (up to ?78,000 for 3 kW systems).
  • Included BIPV for residential segment subsidy support.
• Global Best Practices:
  • Seoul: Up to 80% subsidy for BIPV installations.
  • EU Directive (Energy Performance of Buildings): Mandates solar tech integration in new buildings; promotes BIPV through clear standards and incentives.