Building Integrated PV

[helmetseahandyman]

You may be against it but this is the future. Roofs are already here and windows and glass isn't far behind. Tesla, GAF and Certain Teed aren't going anywhere but you're right, they may stop making these products someday. But for now we're going to dip our toes and see what bites. I also agree servicing these systems will be difficult and costly.

One of the big questions that will come up is where's the line drawn between roofer and electrician?

While the 2023 NEC might not specifically mention BIPV like solar shingles, it does cover all PV systems under general electrical safety standards. Advancements are continually improving the efficiency and durability of solar shingles, making them a more viable option. You can check out this report from NREL here: https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy00osti/23700.pdf

Also, if you're in Minnesota, you'll find additional incentives that can help offset initial costs and maximize your investment: https://minnesota.statesolar.org

 

[pv_n00b]

While the 2023 NEC might not specifically mention BIPV like solar shingles, it does cover all PV systems under general electrical safety standards. Advancements are continually improving the efficiency and durability of solar shingles, making them a more viable option. You can check out this report from NREL here: https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy00osti/23700.pdf

A blast from the past. That NREL article is old and is talking about Uni-Solar which went out of business a long time ago. The only advancement Uni-Solar added to BIPV was to provide another example of why it makes no sense.
I still have a couple of flexible Uni-Solar modules designed for portable use. As a roofing material? No way.