How is BIPV different from conventional rooftop solar?

Building-integrated photovoltaics are designed to form part of a building element, such as its cladding, glazing or roof covering. Conventional rooftop panels are typically mounted above an existing roof. The appropriate option depends on your architecture, renovation scope and energy priorities.

Can these products be considered for renovation?

Yes, they can be explored during a façade, roof or balcony renovation. Suitability depends on the existing structure, condition, available sunlight and the proposed assembly. Share your drawings or renovation brief so the relevant options can be reviewed.

Can I choose colours, formats or transparency?

Colour, surface texture, format and transparency are key architectural choices. The available combinations depend on the selected product and its intended application. Request current product information and samples before finalising the specification; website imagery is a design reference.

How much electricity will my building generate?

A useful estimate needs the location, orientation, shading, usable area and the selected product’s data. Different surfaces of the same building can have different exposure. We do not apply a single output figure to every façade, balcony or roof.

What affects the cost of a BIPV project?

The product and finish, surface area, substructure, access, junction details and electrical scope all affect the proposal. For renovation, removal and preparation work also matter. Compare the complete building assembly and project scope when evaluating options.

What should I send Abelarti to get started?

Describe your property, its location and which surfaces you are considering. Mention whether you have drawings and whether an architect or contractor is already involved. Product availability, technical documentation and the responsibilities of each project partner can then be clarified.

ARCHITECTURE, WITH NEW ENERGY

Building-integrated
solar.
Part of the architecture.

Solar façades, glazing, balconies and roof tiles. Explore building-integrated solar with architectural finishes, light and form in mind, with Abelarti in Switzerland.

Explore the applications Discuss your project

MATERIALS. LIGHT. ENERGY.

BUILDING-INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAICS

Your building envelope.
A source of energy.

Building-integrated solar combines electricity generation with architectural elements: façade cladding, glazing, balcony panels and roof tiles. Colour, texture, transparency and format become part of the design brief.

Explore surfaces that complement your building’s character, from stone-like and timber-like finishes to solar glazing. Abelarti helps you explore product options around the appearance, application and requirements of your project.

Looking for conventional solar panels?

Architectural illustration of a contemporary house with grey façade cladding

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COLOUR & CHARACTER

Solar façades.
A new role for the exterior.

Photovoltaic cladding brings electricity generation into the building’s outer surface. Explore colour and architectural expression alongside the energy brief.

Discuss the façade layout, exposure, panel format and the supporting construction with your project team.

Discuss solar façades Architectural illustration · indicative application

Architectural illustration of architectural solar glazing

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LIGHT & INTEGRATION

Solar glass.
Let the design shine.

Explore photovoltaic glass for façade glazing, skylights and other glazed building elements. The selected product must suit the role of the glass in your design.

Bring drawings and your daylight requirements. Transparency, appearance and performance need to be considered together.

Discuss solar glass Architectural illustration · indicative application

Architectural illustration of photovoltaic balcony panels

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EVERYDAY ARCHITECTURE

Solar balconies.
Make the edge count.

Photovoltaic panels can become part of a balcony balustrade system, introducing solar generation into another part of the building.

The complete balustrade assembly, fixings and cable routes need project-specific review. Tell us whether you are planning a new building or an upgrade.

Discuss solar balconies Architectural illustration · indicative application

Architectural illustration of a roof with integrated solar tiles

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ROOFLINE & CONTINUITY

Solar roof tiles.
A roof with purpose.

Solar tiles integrate photovoltaic technology into the roof covering, bringing the roof’s appearance and energy function together.

Roof geometry, junctions, weather protection and electrical design belong in the same conversation from the outset.

Discuss solar roof tiles Architectural illustration · indicative application

PLAN THE WHOLE ASSEMBLY

Designed together.
From the beginning.

A building element and an electrical system share the same surface. Give both a place in the brief.

Start with the building.

Location, drawings, new build or renovation, and the surfaces you want to explore.

Define the right assembly.

Product selection, appearance, fixings, interfaces and the documentation your design team needs.

Connect the energy plan.

Expected generation, cable routes and electrical equipment, coordinated with the wider project.

A clear scope.
A considered investment.

We discuss product availability and the proposed supply scope with you. Materials, access, supporting construction and electrical work influence the overall budget. The selected system and its suitability for your Swiss project must be confirmed before an order.

Talk to Abelarti

ANOTHER WAY TO SEE SOLAR

Architecture in motion.
Ideas for your next project.

Scroll to explore Swipe to explore Jump to the finishes

Architectural visual of a large building with copper-toned and dark façade panels — Colour on a larger canvas.
An architectural expression in warm metallic tones.

Architectural visual of a contemporary building with vertical warm-toned cladding — Warmth, in every line.
A timber-like expression for a contemporary exterior.

Architectural visual of a multi-level contemporary home with contrasting façade finishes — Layers of architecture.
Contrasting volumes, finishes and planted spaces.

Architectural visual of dark façade panels beside glass and a landscaped garden — A quieter material palette.
Dark surfaces, glass and landscape considered together.

Architectural illustration of a timber home with a dark solar-tile roof — Follow the roofline.
An integrated solar roof in a residential setting.

SURFACE. COLOUR. CHARACTER.

A different finish.
A different feeling.

Explore nine surface expressions, from concrete and stone to warm wood grain. Appearance and available finishes depend on the selected product; confirm your choice with a physical sample.