MODERN METHODS OF CONSTRUCTION AN OPPORTUNITY FOR BIPV?

Abstract

Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) technologies are facing a number of market barriers, such as flexible design, aesthetics and cost parity, and are still viewed as an emergent technology. Modern methods of construction (MMC) could potentially offer a solution to some of the barriers, achieving cost-savings through efficient manufacturing processes, realising greater value to clients, and paving the way for active building components in net-zero energy buildings. This paper discusses the potential of embedding BIPV products into a number of defined approaches to MMC, comparing the relative advantages and disadvantages to the current delivery of BIPV in traditional construction projects. It can be seen that MMC category 1 (volumetric structural systems) has the potential to deliver the greatest benefit from an integrated technology.