Façades and building envelopes
Assess sun-facing façades, spandrel panels and other suitable surfaces. The review balances appearance and generation with wind loading, fixing details, weather protection, fire requirements and access for replacement.
BIPV, Solar Glass & Emerging PV Technologies
Where architecture meets solar innovation.
Explore energy-generating façades, canopies and glazing that bring solar thinking into the architecture itself.
Understand the solution ↓THE SOLUTION, EXPLAINED
Understand what it means for your site.
Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) combine electricity generation with a building element such as a façade, canopy, roof surface or selected glazing. Unlike a conventional panel added above a roof, a BIPV element must also perform its architectural role. That makes building design and electrical design part of the same conversation.
Solar glass is not one uniform product. Different options offer different levels of transparency, colour, appearance and electrical output. A highly transparent surface may not deliver the same generation as an opaque panel. Orientation, surrounding shade and the way occupants use the space all affect suitability.
The opportunity is best explored early, while the architect, façade consultant and electrical team can coordinate dimensions, connections, access and maintenance. For an existing building, the review must also consider the practicalities of replacing or adapting the envelope.
What shapes the right solution?
Transparency, orientation, shading, structural requirements, safety and product availability must be evaluated together. LSC remains an emerging research concept; product readiness and availability require separate evaluation.
DESIGNED AROUND YOUR NEEDS
Where this solution fits.
Architects, developers, commercial buildings, corporate campuses and selected building envelopes.
Canopies, skylights and covered spaces
Explore shading and power generation over entrances, walkways or selected roof openings. Daylight, glare, drainage, structural support and cleaning access need to be considered together—not after the product has been selected.
Emerging PV technologies
Compare product maturity, test documentation, warranty support and procurement availability. Luminescent solar concentrators are a research concept distinct from conventional photovoltaic glass; their inclusion in a design requires separate technical and commercial validation.
FROM DISCUSSION TO DELIVERY
A clear path forward.
- 01
Review the architectural intent
Understand the building stage, target surfaces, orientation and desired visual qualities. Identify the role the solar element must perform in the envelope.
- 02
Compare technically suitable options
Evaluate product data, transparency, output, electrical routing and structural interfaces. Establish what needs specialist confirmation or a sample review.
- 03
Define an integrated scope
Coordinate responsibilities between the architect, façade supplier, structural designer and electrical team. Confirm procurement, installation interfaces and maintenance requirements before proceeding.
Scope we can discuss
The final engagement is tailored to your site and agreed requirements.
- 01Building-integrated photovoltaic feasibility
- 02Façade, canopy and skylight applications
- 03Opaque and semi-transparent photovoltaic glazing
- 04Architectural and electrical coordination
- 05Emerging-technology evaluation
- 06Product and site suitability review
Useful information to have ready
- Architectural drawings, elevations and site orientation
- Target application: façade, canopy, skylight or roof
- Desired transparency, appearance and daylight requirements
- Project stage and the consultants already involved
You do not need every detail to begin. Share what you know and we can identify the next information needed.
ENERGY, CONNECTED
One system.
More possibilities.
Explore how generation, architecture, storage and intelligence can work together. Follow the flow of energy from sunlight to useful electricity.
Sunlight
Site demand
Energy management
Storage
Generation → energy management → site demand & storage
01 / TECHNOLOGY
Rooftop solar
Suitable roof area becomes a source of on-site electricity. Structural checks, shading and electricity demand guide the design.
Discuss suitability for your site