Key Technologies and Development Trends of Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV)

Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) have emerged as a sustainable solution to combine renewable energy generation with architectural functionality. This review provides a comprehensive overview of BIPV technologies, including crystalline silicon, thin-film, perovskite, and organic photovoltaic modules, highlighting their efficiency, flexibility, and aesthetic potential. Integration forms such as roofs, facades, and semi-transparent windows are discussed, along with key materials, encapsulation techniques, and energy storage strategies. System design considerations, including electrical and thermal performance optimization, smart monitoring, and real-world case studies, are examined to illustrate practical applications. Challenges such as material degradation, efficiency losses, economic barriers, and environmental concerns are critically analyzed. Future trends emphasize high-efficiency tandem modules, flexible and lightweight materials, smart BIPV systems, standardization, and sustainability within a circular economy framework. By integrating performance, aesthetics, and environmental responsibility, BIPV can play a pivotal role in advancing energy-positive buildings and promoting sustainable urban development.