Acronym of BIPV (Building Integrated Photovoltaics) refers to photovoltaic systems integrated with an object's building phase. It means that they are built/constructed along with an object. They are also planned together with the object. Yet, they could be built later on. Due to specific task cooperation of many different experts, such as architects, civil engineers and PV system designers, is necessary. According to how and where such systems are built, whether into the facade or in the roof, the following BIPV systems are recognized:

Facade or roof systems added after the building was built
Facade integrated photovoltaic systems built along with an object
Roof-integrated photovoltaic systems built along with an object
"Shadow-Voltaic" - PV systems also used as shadowing systems, built along with an object or added later

In the case of facade or roof systems the photovoltaic system is added to the building after it was built. These low powered systems of up to some 10 kW are usually integrated into the south facade. Facade integrated photovoltaic systems could consist of different transparent module types, such as crystalline and micro-perforated amorphous transparent modules. In such case a part of natural light is transferred into the building through the modules. Solar cells are available in different colours; therefore, there is no limitation for imagination of the architect or the designer. We can say that such constructed buildings give the term architecture a completely new meaning. Roof-integrated photovoltaic systems are integrated into the roof; the roof is covered with transparent photovoltaic modules, or they are added to the roof later. Such systems are added to a flat roof, or on a tilted roof usually only if the building is small. It is possible to use tiles, which integrate solar cells. Photovoltaic systems could be used for shadowing, where photovoltaic modules serve as Venetian blinders. In some of such cases photovoltaic modules tilt angle could be adjusted manually or automatically allowing for shadowing the building and/or photovoltaic module efficiency optimization. Such systems are also known as "Shadow-Voltaic" systems. The best results and efficiency can be reached with systems, which are tightly integrated into the passive solar buildings; however, the use of active solar systems is an additional possibility. This is where the modules are partially transmitting allowing natural light to penetrate the building. Undoubtedly, such systems challenge even the best of architects. High level of expertise is required for successful BIPV systems planning, not only in regard to architecture, but also to civil and photovoltaic engineering. The projects realised in the past show that successful BIPV systems designing is based heavily on technical experience and knowledge. Poorly designed systems usually have to be redesigned or repaired later, consequently swelling maintenance costs and lowering system efficiency rate. List of largest BIPV systems worldwide you may find here