Integrating Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) into Sustainable Architecture: A Review of Architectural-Scale Applications and Emerging Performance Strategies
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52152/4424Keywords:
Building-Integrated Photovoltaics, Green Building, Performance Optimization, Bibliometric Analysis, System Integration Barriers, Multi-Objective DesignAbstract
Driven by the global energy crisis and carbon neutrality goals, Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) systems are increasingly recognized as a key solution in sustainable architecture. This study presents a comprehensive review of BIPV integration approaches and emerging performance strategies at the building scale. Combining qualitative analysis with bibliometric methods, the research is based on publication data from the Web of Science Core Collection, using relevant topics in photovoltaic technology and green building, and covering the years 2001 to 2025. The paper traces the evolution of BIPV technologies, identifies research hotspots, and reveals shifts in structural and performance paradigms. Technically, BIPV systems have evolved from simple energy-generating add-ons to multifunctional building envelope components that integrate structural, protective, visual, and environmental regulation functions, with applications in roofs, façades, shading systems, and more. Performance assessment has become increasingly multi-dimensional, encompassing energy conversion efficiency, thermal management, environmental impact, aesthetic integration, and economic viability. Bibliometric analysis reveals a transition from structural integration to multi-objective performance optimization, with smart modeling, AI-assisted design, and urban energy network integration emerging as future directions. Despite this progress, BIPV implementation still faces systemic barriers such as structural complexity, high costs, regulatory fragmentation, and limited interdisciplinary collaboration. In response, this paper proposes a framework addressing intelligent modeling, policy incentives, standard development, and design education to advance the deep integration and widespread adoption of BIPV in green buildings. The findings aim to provide theoretical insights and practical guidance for BIPV deployment, policymaking, and future research.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Wenliang Ye, Meiyan Dai, Xiaoyang Qiao, Xinwei Liu, Yun Qiu (Author)
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