What key parameters should be considered when selecting BIPV components?

With the advancement of the global green and low-carbon development strategy and the continuous progress of renewable energy technology, BIPV (Building Integrated Photovoltaics) components have gradually become an ideal choice for modern buildings that combines beauty and functionality. BIPV can not only be used as a structural material for building exterior walls, roofs or sunshades, but can also directly generate electricity to help buildings achieve energy conservation and emission reduction and improve energy efficiency.

However, facing the dazzling array of BIPV products on the market, how to scientifically and rationally select BIPV components suitable for their own projects is an issue that every developer, designer and owner must seriously consider. This article will deeply analyze the key parameters that need to be focused on when selecting BIPV components from the dimensions of technical performance, structural characteristics, aesthetic design, economy and reliability, to help you make a more informed decision.

1. Parameters related to power generation performance

BIPV is first of all a photovoltaic power generation device, so its power generation efficiency and related electrical performance indicators are the primary considerations.

1.1 Conversion efficiency

Conversion efficiency refers to the efficiency of BIPV components in converting solar energy into electrical energy. Efficient components can generate more electricity under the same lighting conditions. Common BIPV modules have different conversion efficiencies depending on the type of cell:

Monocrystalline silicon: high conversion efficiency, usually 18%~22%.

Polycrystalline silicon: slightly lower, usually 15%~18%.

Thin-film modules (such as CIGS, amorphous silicon): low efficiency, but highly adaptable, can be made into translucent or flexible forms.

Reasonably weigh efficiency and cost based on the project's lighting conditions, available area and budget.

1.2 Rated power

Rated power refers to the maximum power output of each module under standard test conditions (STC), in watts (W). The total installed capacity needs to be planned based on the building area and power demand, and then the module suitable for the power level is selected.

1.3 Operating voltage and current

The operating voltage and current of each BIPV module determine the series and parallel design of the system. It is necessary to ensure matching with the inverter and other electrical equipment to avoid reduced efficiency or increased losses due to mismatch.

1.4 Temperature coefficient

Increases in temperature will reduce the output power of the module. The smaller the temperature coefficient, the more stable the performance. For areas with abundant sunshine but high temperatures, the temperature coefficient is a parameter that cannot be ignored.

2. Parameters related to structural performance

BIPV is different from ordinary photovoltaic modules. As part of the building materials, it needs to meet certain mechanical strength, air tightness and waterproofness.

2.1 Mechanical strength

The modules must withstand wind loads, snow loads, and even the pressure of people stepping on them. The strength level that meets or exceeds the local specifications should be selected according to the climatic conditions of the project location.

2.2 Waterproof performance

Especially when applied on roofs and facades, the BIPV modules themselves and the joints with the building structure must have good waterproof design to avoid problems such as seepage and leakage.

2.3 Fire protection level

As part of the building materials, BIPV modules must meet the corresponding fire protection standards, such as EN13501 or UL790. Flame-retardant packaging materials and glass are usually used.

2.4 Size and weight

BIPV needs to be closely coordinated with the building design. It is necessary to confirm whether the size of the module is suitable for the existing building structure, whether the weight is within the building load range, and whether it will not affect the overall safety after installation.

3. Aesthetic design related parameters

One of the important values of BIPV is its integration with architectural aesthetics to meet the architect's needs for appearance.

3.1 Color and appearance

BIPV can customize color and transparency according to needs. For example, curtain wall BIPV often uses gray, blue, green and other glass, and can also be translucent for lighting ceilings and partitions.

3.2 Light transmittance

For BIPV used for lighting, such as atrium skylights or curtain walls, it is necessary to pay attention to light transmittance in order to provide appropriate shading and power generation functions while meeting lighting needs.

3.3 Consistency

The appearance of the components should be uniform, without obvious color difference and defects, to maintain the overall beauty of the building and avoid visual disharmony.

4. Reliability and durability

As a building component exposed to the outdoors for a long time, BIPV needs to maintain stability and safety for a long time.

4.1 Service life

The design life of high-quality BIPV components is usually more than 25 years. Pay attention to the warranty period, power attenuation warranty, etc. provided by the manufacturer.

4.2 Weather resistance

The components must be able to withstand the long-term effects of harsh environments such as ultraviolet rays, humidity, heat, salt spray, acid rain, etc., and not be easy to age.

4.3 Certification and standards

Choose products that have been certified by authorities, such as IEC61215, IEC61730, EN50583, etc., to ensure product quality and safety.

5. Economy and sustainability

5.1 Cost and budget

The price of BIPV components is usually higher than that of traditional photovoltaic components, but it saves some building material costs and can also save long-term energy costs. It is necessary to consider the initial investment and long-term returns comprehensively.

5.2 Energy benefits

Based on the lighting conditions, electricity demand, grid-connected electricity prices, etc. of the project location, evaluate the system's annual power generation, electricity savings and possible subsidies.

5.3 Maintenance costs

A high-quality BIPV system is reasonably designed, simple to maintain, and has low long-term operating costs. When purchasing, you can learn about the after-sales service and maintenance suggestions provided by the manufacturer.

6. Other matters that need attention

6.1 Supplier strength

Choosing experienced and reputable brands and suppliers can ensure product quality, technical support and after-sales service.

6.2 System compatibility

Ensure that BIPV components are compatible with inverters, energy storage systems, monitoring equipment, etc. in the system.

6.3 Installation convenience

Some BIPV components adopt standardized installation design, which is more convenient and less costly. Try to choose products that are installation-friendly and have a short construction period.

As an important part of green buildings, BIPV has both power generation and construction functions and is an important direction for future building energy solutions. When choosing BIPV components, we should not only pay attention to its power generation efficiency, but also take into account the safety, durability, appearance and economic returns of building materials.

Only by considering the conversion efficiency, rated power, fire protection, waterproofing, strength, color, light transmittance, certification and other parameters reasonably according to project requirements, budget, climate conditions, building structure characteristics, etc., can we select the most suitable BIPV components and achieve the perfect unity of energy, architecture and aesthetics.

Choosing the right BIPV components can not only bring considerable energy benefits to the building, but also help create a greener, more beautiful and intelligent modern building. It is a wise choice to promote sustainable development.

As a professional wholesale BIPV component supplier, we are well aware that customers are concerned not only about power generation efficiency during the purchase process, but also about the safety, durability, aesthetics and economy of the product. The BIPV components we provide strictly follow international standards, have high conversion efficiency, excellent fireproof and waterproof performance, and rich color and light transmittance options, which can meet different architectural styles and functional requirements. Relying on many years of industry experience, we also provide customers with selection guidance, technical support and perfect after-sales service to help customers create green, efficient and beautiful building-integrated photovoltaic solutions and achieve sustainable development goals.

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