What is a photovoltaic solar panel?

Photovoltaics, more commonly known as solar panels, are one of the purest and most reliable methods for producing renewable energy. Each panel is composed of photovoltaic cells, which activate when exposed to the sun, absorbing its rays and converting them into clean electricity.

What is a strip of photovoltaic cells arranged into a geometric pattern?

Strips of colourful photovoltaic cells are arranged into a geometric pattern to form this artwork, conceived by Dutch designer Marjan van Aubel to bring solar panels from our roofs into our homes.

Are building-integrated photovoltaics a viable alternative to solar energy harvesting?

Historically, solar energy harvesting has been expensive, relatively inefficient, and hampered by poor design. Existing building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) have proven to be less practical and economically unfeasible for large-scale adoption due to design limitations and poor aesthetics.

What are building-integrated photovoltaics (bipvs)?

Today, all that is changing with the invention of building-integrated photovoltaics or BIPVs. This new breed of solar panel is incorporated directly into the building envelope. The sleek panels become an exciting new design element, proudly displayed for all to see.

How does a semi-transparent photovoltaic system work?

The semi-transparent photovoltaic units are able to absorb solar radiation without blocking natural light from entering the offices, leading to a 28% reduction in energy use. Between the “mosaic” of photovoltaic panels and the inner glass façade are partially enclosed balconies for the employees to enjoy.

Does a photovoltaic project need to look ugly?

Corson, nonetheless, primarily considers it an artwork. “One of the things I wanted to do is share that photovoltaic projects do not need to look ugly,” he says. “Not that all solar projects are ugly, but we often see PV cells arranged in an efficient and non-aesthetic manner.