Potential of Building-Integrated Photovoltaic Applications

Application of building-integrated photovoltaic technology has developed very rapidly in recent years. This paper presents an overall review of the development of the BIPV applications in the world. It is found that demonstration projects can help the promotion of the technology at the beginning of any BIPV programme, but the government energy policy plays a critical role for its sustainable development. The potential for BIPV application in the future is significant if more countries like China and India can propose their own targets and new energy policy. Based on our experience of BIPV research and consultancy projects completed in Hong Kong, the past, current and future application of this application is summarized. The target for renewable energy application on an annual basis in Hong Kong is proposed to reach 1% by 2012 and 3% by 2022 of the annual electricity demand in 1999. The future potential of BIPV contribution could a substantial part of the demand.