Challenges and research needs in life cycle analysis of building-integrated photovoltaic

Abstract

Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) is a promising solar energy technology that looks set to grow in popularity in the pursuit of a sustainable future. It has the potential to mitigate some of the main concerns over ground-mounted solar energy systems such as land use. However, there is an apparent gap in our understanding of its life cycle environmental impacts. Very few life cycle analysis (LCA) studies have evaluated BIPV comprehensively in comparison with standalone PV systems and other energy technologies. In this paper, we review the limited existing LCA studies on BIPV and identify the challenges and future research needs. The findings will help researchers, industries and policy makers better understand the environmental sustainability of BIPV to facilitate its development.