Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) Explained

BIPV systems are incorporated into the building envelope, providing energy for the building while serving as weather protection, insulation, noise reduction and more.

Want more information on Integrated PV Systems? Feel free to contact us.

PV systems are installed in modules. Two common types of modules are currently in use: thick-crystal products and thin-film products. Thick-crystal cells are made of crystalline silicon, generating 10-12 watts per sq ft in full sunlight. Thin-film products consist of thin layers of PV material applied to a glass or metal substrate, producing 4-5 watts per sq ft in full sunlight. While thin-film products have a lower output, they are more affordable.

In terms of energy collection, building-integrated photovoltaics operate similarly to other PV systems. When photons from sunlight strike the semi-conductive material of BIPV, some are absorbed and converted into energy. The absorbed photons dislodge atoms and create an electronic imbalance, generating an electrical current. A PV inverter then converts this energy to power buildings and homes.

The electricity may be stored for later use, used immediately, or sent to the grid. Most BIPV systems are connected to the electrical grid, but some are independent and rely on other power sources like batteries or generators when solar power is unavailable.

✔ Integrated solar panels are embedded into a tileless section of the roof

✔ Prices for integrated solar panels range from about £100-£245 per panel

✔ While more aesthetically pleasing, they are 3% less efficient than on-roof panels

Solar panel prices have fallen and the products have become less bulky, now designed with aesthetics in mind. Integrated solar panels offer high efficiency and a sleek, modern look.

Want to learn more about these discreet panels? We've got everything you need to know in our helpful guide below.

If you prefer utilizing solar energy but would rather stick to regular panels, we can help. Fill out a short form with basic information about your property, and we will connect you with professional installers with the best prices.

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What are integrated solar panels?

Integrated solar panels, also called in-roof panels, are similar to traditional solar panels but are embedded into a tileless section of the roof.

Unlike regular solar panels, integrated panels require minimal mounting equipment, with support structures hidden out of sight underneath. They are designed to behave like roof tiles, being weatherproof, waterproof, and as strong as normal roof tiles.

Installation is generally straightforward. In most cases, the underlying roof structure does not need alteration. Roof tiles are removed, plastic trays are fitted to the existing structure, and conventional framed solar panels are then mounted into these trays. Gaps around the trays are filled with slates.

Some roof-integrated panels do not need trays, incorporating weatherproof flashing into the frames instead.

How much do integrated solar panels cost?

Most integrated solar panel systems cost similar to traditional on-roof systems.

To get a better idea of costs, check out the table below comparing solar panel prices for different property sizes.

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Property size

Annual electricity usage

Number of solar panels

Average installation cost*

Annual electricity bill savings**

Time it takes to break even

Solar panel profit after 25 years

1-2 bedroom house

3 bedroom house

4 bedroom house

1,800 kWh

2,700 kWh

4,100 kWh

6

10

14

£4,216

£7,026

£9,837

£289

£483

£676

14.55 years

14.55 years

14.55 years

£3,026

£5,042

£7,060

* Please note these prices are based on Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) cost data (March 2023), the average price of electricity (October-December 2023), and Ofgem's latest typical domestic consumption values (2023). Total costs may increase with more complex installations. The above estimates do not include the cost of a solar battery.

When it comes to installing an integrated solar panel system, you have two options:

• Use standard panels

  – This involves mounting regular panels on an in-roof frame, such as the GSE system or EasyRoof Evolution. This will cost a similar amount to the prices in the table above

• Use a bespoke system –

  This involves having the panels made specifically for the property, typically costing more. Currently offered by Viridian, SolFit, or GB-Sol

Unlike regular solar panel installation, you need to consider the roof retrofitting costs. This involves removing and installing the slates/tiles and can vary widely depending on the roof size and material.

Other factors influencing the cost of integrated solar panels include:

• The number of panels needed

• Whether they are for a new build or retrofit

• How much energy you want the panels to generate

• The manufacturer you choose

The pros and cons of integrated solar panels

Before investing in integrated solar panels, consider the advantages and disadvantages. Here's a quick overview:

Pros

• Aesthetically pleasing
• Affordable
• Lightweight
• Good for homes with restricted planning permission
• Low maintenance
• No interference from pigeons

Cons

• Lower efficiency
• Retrofitting can be difficult

Advantages of integrated solar panels

For those interested in integrated solar panel systems, the benefits significantly outweigh the drawbacks. Here are some of the advantages:

For more news of Gain Solar, feel free to contact us. We will provide professional answers.

Additional reading:
The History of the Lithium-Ion Battery

Aesthetically pleasing

5 Things to Know Before Buying Customized Half Cell 144 Cells Mono Solar Module

In 2021, we conducted a survey on the appearance of solar panels. Overall, we found that half of respondents aged 13-40 think solar panels are attractive, which drops to just 11% among 57-72 year olds. As for 73-88 year olds? No respondents in this bracket find solar panels attractive.

If you agree with the older generations in our study that traditional solar panels are unattractive, integrated panels might be for you. Since they are installed as part of the roof's structure, integrated solar panels blend seamlessly with roof tiles.

This makes for a great look for any style of house.

Affordable

Integrated solar panels, once much more expensive than on-roof panels, are now quite affordable. This is great news considering 69% of people ranked cost as the most important factor when evaluating low-carbon products. Additionally, according to our survey, 43% said high energy bills prevent them from buying green tech.

As the technology has become popular, more manufacturers have started offering integrated solutions, thus reducing their cost. Now, in-roof panels cost similarly to regular panels.

Lightweight

Standard solar panels can be too heavy for some roofs, leading to maintenance issues with both the building and the panels.

Roof-integrated systems, however, replace roof tiles instead of sitting atop them, thus adding little to no additional weight to the roof.

Good for homes with restricted planning permission

Since integrated panels sit flat with the roof and can be altered to match a specific color scheme, they are more likely to get planning permission in listed buildings or protected areas.

Moreover, in-roof panels won't add extra weight to the roof, making them a good option for older, delicate buildings.

Low maintenance

Solar panels are already low-maintenance, but in-roof panels go a step further.

Integrated panels don't have a mounting frame, which means there is no room for birds to nest underneath. You probably won't need to worry about pigeon-proofing your panels or cleaning debris as often.

No interference from pigeons

Unlike on-roof panels, integrated solar panels don’t have a gap between the unit and the roof.

Such gaps typically attract pigeons, which can cause damage, resulting in decreased output and lower savings on your bills.

Thankfully, integrated solar panels eliminate this concern.

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Disadvantages of integrated solar panels

Like any technology, there are some downsides to integrated solar panels. Here are the key ones:

Lower efficiency

Integrated solar panels are generally 3% less efficient than on-roof solar panels. This is because they sit snugly in the roof, lacking air ventilation around the panel to keep it cool. On hot days, this can lead to overheating and lower energy production.

For homeowners, this means less solar-generated electricity and a longer payback period.

Retrofitting can be difficult

Adding integrated panels to an existing roof comes with challenges. It usually costs more and takes longer because the installer needs to remove roof tiles or slates, which adds to the complexity.

Can you get integrated solar panels in the UK?

Yes! More manufacturers are selling integrated panels widely across the UK, with several options available from local companies:

• GB Sol – A Wales-based manufacturer with 20 years of expertise and an award-winning roof-integrated system. GB Sol offers bespoke options, although they can be costlier.
• GSE Integration – Dominates over 60% of residential solar installations in France and supplies panels in the UK. Materials used are 100% recyclable and are on the cheaper end of the price spectrum.
• Viridian – Cambridge-based company offering a system named Clearline Fusion, suitable for different roof styles. Their panels use an innovative frame that locks between panels for a weathertight finish without the need for plastic trays.

ManufacturerProductPerformance warrantyManufacturer warranty

GB Sol

Roof-Integrated System

25 years

10 years

GSE Integration

In-roof Integration

10 years

10 years

Viridian

Clearline Fusion

25 years

10 years

Should you get integrated solar panels?

Although more than two thirds of Brits would now buy a property with solar panels on the roof, some people still aren't fans of their appearance.

If you fall into this category but want to benefit from cheap, green electricity, integrated solar panels may be the right option for you.

Their sleek aesthetics are appealing to homeowners, and they also provide a smaller carbon footprint.

From a financial perspective, whether integrated panels are worth it depends on the state of your roof.

If you're replacing your roof, it's an ideal time to invest. However, if you need to remove sections of tiles just to install the panels, the extra cost might outweigh the savings from the panels themselves.

Integrated solar panels vs solar roof tiles

Though both aim to generate solar power while being aesthetically pleasing, integrated panels and solar roof tiles differ significantly.

Integrated panels sit in the roof covering but are the size of conventional framed panels, making them somewhat visible. Solar tiles resemble the tiles they replace, making them more discreet.

While solar tiles are much more discreet, they are also less efficient than panels, meaning they generate less energy.

Integrated solar panel maintenance

Integrated solar panels are lower maintenance than on-roof counterparts.

Solar panels generally have no moving parts, making them low maintenance. With fewer parts to maintain, integrated systems are even more hassle-free. You probably won't need to pigeon-proof your panels or check for debris as often.

Aside from this, maintaining integrated panels is similar to regular on-roof panel maintenance. To keep your panels in top shape, follow these six key tips:

1. Get your panels serviced every 5-10 years
2. Clean your solar panels every five years
3. Regularly remove potential dangers
4. Keep solar panels out of the shade
5. Ensure the inverters are flashing green
6. Check day-to-day performance

Want to learn more about solar panel maintenance? Check out our guide on solar panel repair and maintenance.

Next steps

The solar panel industry is continuously evolving, striving to increase efficiency, improve aesthetics, and devise innovative ways to generate more electricity.

Despite advancements, traditional solar panels remain popular mostly due to their price and efficiency.

If your home could benefit from solar panels, you're in the right place. Use our easy quote tool to find the best deals.

Simply provide your details in this short form, and our suppliers will reach out with their best solar panel prices.

FAQs

Once your property has been assessed, the installer will start by removing the roof tiles to expose the felt and batten roof. Plastic trays are then fitted to this existing structure, which is where the solar panels will sit.

The installer will then complete the electrical wiring, secure the panels