BIPVco Integrated Solar
Powerply is a single ply membrane roofing product with integrated solar cells. Factory applied PV cells are integrated directly onto the approved single ply membrane to create a roofing system that can be installed in the same way as a conventional roof.
Sustainable buildings and architecture are an utmost consideration for architects for the built environment of the future.
Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) is fast becoming the architect’s preferred approach for integrating solar PV into a buildings architecture. We understand the challenges from the architectural, construction contracting and thermo-mechanical viewpoints – this is a highly challenging sector for solar module manufacturers.
We combine form and function by combining established construction products with cutting-edge solar solutions. BIPVco is committed to factory incorporation of PV functionality to the building fabric to drive quality and value, and facilitate integrated solar architectural solutions.
Collaborating with significant building envelope substrate and component manufacturers, we can offer sympathetically integrated solar-powered roof and wall solutions. The thin film flexible solar cells are infused directly into contemporary building envelope substrates of metals such as steel, aluminium, stainless steel and zinc or non-metals such as TPO single-ply membranes, polycarbonate sheets and certain types of plastics.
Our range of applications is constantly expanding, and BIPVco welcomes the opportunity to work with ambitious architects and designers to extend BIPVco’s range of new applications and fulfil the design brief without compromise.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes BIPVco different from conventional rooftop solar panels?
BIPVco is a building-integrated photovoltaic approach in which flexible photovoltaic modules are factory incorporated into an approved roofing or cladding product. The solar element forms part of the external envelope rather than being installed on a separate framed mounting system. The complete roof and electrical installation must still be designed, installed and commissioned by appropriately qualified parties.
Which building materials can incorporate BIPVco technology?
BIPVco offers product families intended for integration with selected membrane and metal roofing or cladding materials. Suitability depends on the specific carrier product, roof geometry, fire classification, electrical design and manufacturer approval. The proposed substrate should be confirmed from the current BIPVco technical documentation.
How is Powerply installed?
Powerply is installed as part of an approved single-ply roof system, following the roofing manufacturer’s requirements for the membrane, seams, attachment and detailing. Electrical connections, cable routes, inverters, isolation and commissioning require a coordinated photovoltaic design and qualified electrical installation.
What projects are best suited to BIPVco?
BIPVco may suit projects where renewable generation must be integrated with the architectural envelope, including commercial roofs, selected curved or lightweight roof forms and design-led façades. Each project requires assessment of orientation, shading, wind loading, fire performance, maintainability and expected energy output.
Can BIPVco be used on residential buildings?
Residential use may be possible where the selected product, roof construction and project scale are suitable. The designer should compare expected generation, cost, maintenance access, electrical requirements and warranty conditions with conventional photovoltaic options before specifying the system.