Solar Integration

Solar Integration

Solar Integration is the careful planning and placement of solar panels and solar technologies into the structure of a building, so that these elements become part of the design instead of being added later. In building design, solar integration can use special glass or roof tiles that collect sunlight and turn it into energy, blending with windows or roofing materials. Designers can use solar shading devices that both block heat and generate power. Placement of solar panels can help control how much sunlight enters a space, making rooms cooler or warmer as needed. Some building surfaces, like facades, can have thin solar films that look like regular walls but create electricity. Solar integration can even include solar-powered lights built into walkways or outdoor spaces, making the building use less energy from outside sources.

building-integrated photovoltaics, solar facade, solar roof tiles, energy-efficient buildings

— Kevin Green