Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) in brick and masonry systems face significant technical hurdles in balancing power generation with structural requirements. Current systems achieve power densities of 0.38 mA per 0.004 m² under optimal conditions, while maintaining compressive strengths necessary for load-bearing applications. These systems must also withstand thermal cycling, moisture exposure, and mechanical stress throughout their service life.

The fundamental challenge lies in embedding photovoltaic elements within structural materials while preserving both power generation efficiency and construction-grade mechanical properties.

This page brings together solutions from recent research—including ceramic substrate integration techniques, nanoparticle-enhanced cementitious materials, heterojunction cell architectures, and fire-resistant cushioning systems. These and other approaches focus on practical implementation strategies that address both energy generation and building code requirements.

1. Roof Tile with Integrated Solar Panels and Contoured Transparent Top Element

Abes Co., Ltd., 2025

A roof tile with integrated solar panels that provides both weather protection and solar energy harvesting. The tile comprises a base element and a transparent top element, with a set of solar panel elements integrated between the top and base elements. The solar panels are positioned below or within the top element, creating a contoured shape section that optimizes solar exposure. The base element provides structural integrity while the top element serves as a mounting platform for the solar panels. The tile's design enables efficient energy generation while maintaining aesthetic appeal.

CN119317754A-patent-drawing

2. Concrete-Embedded Photovoltaic System with Integrated Solar Cells in Structural Elements

DR CH ASHA IMMANUEL RAJU ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR ANDHRA UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, 2024

Concrete-based photovoltaic systems integrate solar cells directly into building materials, enabling structural components to generate electricity while maintaining their primary functions. The systems employ a manufacturing process where photovoltaic cells are embedded within concrete elements, such as walls, facades, and pavements, during the concrete production process. This integrated approach eliminates the need for separate solar panels and traditional support structures, while maintaining the structural integrity of buildings. The concrete matrix provides inherent protection against environmental stressors, enhancing the durability and lifespan of the embedded photovoltaic cells.

3. Cementitious Building Material with Nanoparticle-Enhanced Waste Composition for Photovoltaic and Hygroelectric Energy Generation

UNIV FEDERAL SANTA MARIA, 2024

A cementitious building material that generates electricity from light, water, and humidity. The material is made by mixing industrial waste like agate powder, rice husk ash, red ceramic, and pecan nut powder with cement and nanoparticles. The waste provides unique properties like electrical conductivity and energy generation when exposed to light, water, or humidity. The material can collect and store hybrid photovoltaic and hygroelectric energy. It can generate voltages up to 400 mV and currents up to 0.38 mA per 0.004 m2 area when exposed to light and water. The waste-based cement brick offers an ecological alternative with energy generation capabilities.

BR102022017553A2-patent-drawing

4. Photovoltaic Panel on Ceramic Substrate with Multi-Layer Transparent Conductive Electrode Structure

SA MINERA CATALANO ARAGONESA, 2024

Photovoltaic panel on ceramic substrate with transparent conductive electrode layer, comprising AZO on ceramic substrate with a semi-transparent TiO2 layer, a transparent gap-conducting layer, a transparent conductive electrode layer, and at least one last transparent protective encapsulant coat.

EP4300815A1-patent-drawing

5. Photovoltaic Ceramic Clinker Tile with Integrated Counter Electrode and Electrolyte Structure

POLITECHNIKA SLASKA IM WINCENT, 2023

Photovoltaic ceramic clinker tile for building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) that integrates a counter electrode and electrolyte into a single, integrated structure. The tile comprises a ceramic substrate with a transparent conductive oxide layer, a platinum counter electrode layer, and a photovoltaic layer comprising titanium oxide nanolayers and dye-adsorbed nanocrystalline titanium oxide. The counter electrode is deposited using screen printing, while the photovoltaic layer is produced through a combination of platinum deposition and screen printing. This integrated design enables efficient energy conversion while eliminating the need for separate photovoltaic and counter electrode components.

6. Heterojunction BIPV Photovoltaic Wall Brick with Integrated Solar Cell Sheet and Structural Framework

FUJIAN JINSHI ENERGY CO LTD, Fujian Jinshi Energy Co., Ltd., 2023

A heterojunction BIPV photovoltaic wall brick structure that integrates solar cells into building facades. The structure comprises a heterojunction solar cell sheet, which is printed onto a substrate using silver paste or copper electroplating, and is mounted onto a structural framework. The solar cell sheet is integrated into the building envelope, with the structural framework providing support and structural integrity. This design enables the solar cell sheet to be exposed to the outside environment while maintaining structural stability.

7. Facade System with Integrated Photovoltaic Modules in Ceramic Panels

MOEDING KERAMIKFASSADEN GMBH, 2022

A facade system that integrates photovoltaic modules into ceramic panels to create a hybrid building envelope. The system comprises a curtain wall structure with a substructure for attachment to a supporting structure of a building, and a cladding that includes ceramic panels with integrated photovoltaic modules. The substructure provides structural support while the ceramic panels serve as the primary cladding, with the photovoltaic modules integrated into the panel design. This approach enables both energy generation and structural integrity, with the ceramic panels maintaining their thermal insulation properties while supporting the photovoltaic system.

DE102020118398A1-patent-drawing

8. Masonry Units with Integrated Photovoltaic Cells and Recessed Mounting Structure

SOLABLOCK LLC, 2021

Photovoltaic-clad masonry units that integrate solar cells into structural concrete blocks for building facades. The units combine the structural integrity of concrete blocks with the energy-generating capability of photovoltaic cells, enabling a new approach to building envelope design. The units feature a rigid support structure, photovoltaic cells, and a water-resistant cover that encloses the cells. The masonry block has a recessed section for the photovoltaic cells, which provides a secure mounting position. The units can be manufactured using a mold with integrated ridge formation, allowing for precise installation of the photovoltaic cells. This innovative design enables the creation of durable, long-lasting building facades that can generate electricity while maintaining structural integrity.

9. Building-Integrated Solar Cell Modules with Fire-Resistant Cushioning and Non-Combustible Base Plate

KANEKA CORP, 2021

Solar cell modules integrated with building materials that enhance fire safety through a novel design. The modules contain a solar cell panel, cushioning material on the back surface, and a non-combustible base plate. The solar cell panel is connected to a cable that extends from the back surface to the front side of the base plate, creating a fire-resistant pathway. This design provides a comprehensive approach to fire protection while maintaining the structural integrity of the building material.

JPWO2020054338A1-patent-drawing

10. Facade System with Integrated Mounting Mechanism for Photovoltaic Modules on Ceramic Panels

MOEDING KERAMIKFASSADEN GMBH, 2021

A facade system that integrates photovoltaic modules into traditional brick facades through a novel fastening mechanism. The system comprises a ceramic facade panel with integrated mounting points for photovoltaic modules, which are attached to the panel using a specialized fastening system. The ceramic panels are designed to provide structural support for the photovoltaic modules while maintaining their thermal insulation properties. The system enables efficient and cost-effective integration of photovoltaic energy into traditional building facades, particularly in urban areas where space is limited.

EP3855617A1-patent-drawing

11. Glass Brick with Integrated Photovoltaic Cells for Combined Thermal Insulation and Electrical Energy Conversion

GLASS TO POWER SPA, 2021

Glass brick with integrated photovoltaic cells that enables both thermal insulation and electrical energy harvesting. The brick comprises a glass structure with integrated photovoltaic cells that convert solar radiation into electrical energy. The photovoltaic cells are integrated into the glass structure, enabling both passive thermal insulation and active power generation. The brick can be used as a building material with integrated electrical energy harvesting capabilities, providing both thermal and electrical performance.

KR20210091725A-patent-drawing

12. Roof Tiles with Integrated Photovoltaic Cells and Concealed Panel Edges

CHAMPION MOULDINGS LTD, 2020

Solar roof tiles with integrated photovoltaic cells that can be seamlessly integrated into existing roof structures without visible panel edges. The tiles feature a transparent or minimally absorptive solar panel over-moulded into the main body, providing a fully integrated solution for building owners seeking to harness solar energy while maintaining aesthetic appeal.

13. Hollow Solar Bricks with Integrated Reinforcement and Welded Half-Brick Structure

Beijing Hanergy Photovoltaic Investment Co., Ltd., BEIJING HANNENG PHOTOVOLTAIC INVESTMENT CO LTD, 2019

Solar hollow bricks with enhanced durability and performance through integrated reinforcement. The bricks feature a hollow structure formed by welding two half bricks at high temperature, with strategically integrated reinforcement elements that provide improved mechanical properties and resistance to environmental stressors. The hollow cavity allows for enhanced thermal and acoustic insulation while maintaining structural integrity. The reinforced sections provide added durability against environmental factors like moisture, wind, and extreme temperatures.

14. Solar Walkway Brick with Hollow Structure and Integrated Solar Cell Mounting System

HEFEI DASAN NEW ENERGY CO LTD, 2019

Solar walkway brick for pedestrian paths with integrated solar power generation. The brick features a hollow structure with a tempered glass cover, internal chambers for drainage and placement cavities, and a solar cell mounting system. The solar cell is secured within the brick's cavity, connected to a battery pack, and positioned on a raised surface. The brick's design enables efficient solar energy harvesting while maintaining structural integrity and pedestrian safety.

CN109853329A-patent-drawing

15. Wall Structure with Integrated Photovoltaic Panels and Passive Ventilation System

YONG JIZHONG, 2019

A low-carbon, environmentally-friendly energy-saving wall structure that integrates photovoltaic systems with passive ventilation. The structure comprises a lightweight brick wall with integrated photovoltaic panels on its exterior, a reflective layer to enhance solar heating, and energy-efficient windows that incorporate sub-frames for improved airflow management. The structure's design enables passive ventilation while maintaining structural integrity, with a built-in fresh air intake system that can be controlled through adjustable valves. This innovative combination addresses both energy efficiency and environmental sustainability, offering a holistic approach to building design that reduces carbon emissions and improves indoor air quality.

16. Solar Roofing System with Curved Polymer-Sand Base Tiles and Integrated Photovoltaic Cells Arranged in Quadruple Blocks

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Solar roofing system with integrated photovoltaic cells that replaces traditional roofing materials while achieving higher efficiency through optimized photovoltaic placement. The system features curved polymer-sand base tiles with integrated photovoltaic cells arranged in blocks of four, allowing for complete coverage while maintaining aesthetic appeal. The photovoltaic cells are mounted on a polymer-sand base, which also serves as the roofing material, eliminating the need for separate mounting hardware. This design enables efficient energy generation while minimizing environmental impact through the use of secondary polymer waste.

17. Prefabricated Building Facade Panels with Integrated Photovoltaic Cells and Recycled Material Components

INSTITUTUL NAT DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU PROTECTIA MEDIULUI, 2018

Building facade cladding using photovoltaic cells that incorporates secondary raw materials from waste recycling. The cladding consists of prefabricated panels with integrated photovoltaic cells, featuring a transparent glass or polymer substrate, a conductive layer, and interconnecting bars. These panels can be used as a standalone building envelope solution or integrated with existing building facades to create energy-efficient, waste-reducing building envelopes.

18. Integrated Photovoltaic Brick Units for Building Facades

MOHSEN MAHFOUZ HASSAN IBRAHIM, 2018

A brick generator for electrical energy that combines photovoltaic panels with brick units to create a single, integrated building component. The system integrates photovoltaic panels into the brick structure during manufacturing, allowing them to be installed on building facades during construction. This eliminates the need for separate roof-mounted solar installations, reducing installation challenges and costs. The integrated system enables maximum energy generation from the building's natural sun-facing surfaces, making it a more efficient and cost-effective solution for building owners and developers.

19. Dry Glass Brick Panels with Integrated Hybrid Solar Cells and Specialized Manufacturing Process

m morini, L. Pastore, L PASTOR, 2018

Dry glass brick panels integrated with hybrid solar cells for building envelopes. The panels combine dry glass brick components with solar cells, eliminating the need for traditional wet assembly methods. The dry glass brick components are manufactured using a specialized manufacturing process that preserves their structural integrity while incorporating the solar cells. This innovative approach enables the creation of high-performance building envelopes with integrated solar power generation, eliminating traditional structural defects associated with wet assembly methods.

CN104221109B-patent-drawing

20. Bioclimatic Building with Integrated Solar Collector and Geothermal Exchanger Systems Featuring Conductive and Insulating Concrete Layers

SUAREZ ALVAREZ CARLOS OMAR, 2017

Bioclimatic building with integrated solar and geothermal systems that achieves near-zero energy consumption through optimized thermal performance. The building incorporates a solar collector system with a conductive concrete layer containing silicon carbide, and a geothermal exchanger system with a thin, low-thermal-conductivity concrete layer. The collector and exchanger are connected through a tube coil system that enables direct heat transfer between the collector and the concrete layer. This innovative design achieves optimal thermal performance while minimizing energy losses through the integrated collector and exchanger systems.

ES2640876A1-patent-drawing

21. Solar Collector System with Ceramic Facade and Integrated Copper Heat Removal Tubes

MÜLLER RAINER, 2017

A solar collector system that integrates both solar heating and hot water generation, addressing the common challenge of maximizing collector area while minimizing summer heating demands. The system comprises a high-temperature fired ceramic outer facade with integrated copper heat removal tubes, featuring perforated clay brick construction. The ceramic panels serve as both a passive solar collector and a heat accumulator, while the copper tubes enable efficient heat transfer. The system's unique design enables both solar heating and hot water production, making it an effective solution for buildings seeking to optimize their energy performance during the summer months.

DE202017000575U1-patent-drawing

22. Photovoltaic Floor Tiles with Integrated Solar Energy Capture for Parking Lot Installation

CHINA SMART CONSTRUCTION GROUP CO LTD, 深圳蓝波绿建集团股份有限公司, 2017

Photovoltaic floor tiles for parking lots that convert parking spaces into solar power generation areas. The tiles are designed to be installed in open parking lots, where they capture the natural daylight and solar radiation to generate electricity. This approach maximizes the use of existing parking space while providing a sustainable alternative to traditional photovoltaic installations.

23. Brick Block with Integrated Photovoltaic Cells, Light-Converging Lens, and Heat Pipe System

KIM MYONG-HWAN, Kim Myung-hwan, 2017

A brick block for architectural applications that integrates photovoltaic cells into the building's structural framework. The block features a heat-collecting system where a light-converging lens is integrated into the brick's mortar joints, with a solar cell positioned within the lens. The lens is designed to concentrate solar energy while maintaining structural integrity, while the solar cell is positioned to maximize power generation. The system incorporates a heat pipe to distribute thermal energy generated by the solar cell, enabling efficient energy harvesting and thermal management. The block can be used as a building envelope component, enhancing both solar power generation and building envelope performance.

KR101710473B1-patent-drawing

24. Integrated Solar Energy Wall with Structural Core Incorporating Solar Panels, Thermal Insulation, Waterproofing, and Water Flow Management System

JIAXING JIUYAO DECORATION DESIGN ENGINEERING CO LTD, Jiaxing Jiuyao Decoration Design Engineering Co., Ltd., 2017

A solar energy wall that integrates multiple functions to enhance building performance. The wall comprises a structural core with integrated solar panels, thermal insulation, waterproofing, and a system for managing water flow. The structural core is designed to absorb solar radiation while maintaining thermal mass through the integrated thermal insulation. The waterproofing system prevents water infiltration, while the flow management system regulates water distribution through the wall. This integrated approach enables the wall to simultaneously provide solar heating, thermal insulation, waterproofing, and water management capabilities, making it an efficient and sustainable building envelope solution.

25. Photovoltaic Roofing Tiles with Integrated Support Structure for Enhanced Insulation and Durability

HUBEI CHUANYI BUILDING MATERIAL TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD., Hubei Chuanyi Environmental Protection Building Materials Technology Co., Ltd., 2016

Photovoltaic tiles for building applications that integrate solar cells into roofing structures, addressing traditional limitations in insulation, water resistance, thermal performance, and durability. These tiles combine photovoltaic cells with a specially designed support structure, enabling direct application to rooftops while maintaining the benefits of solar energy harvesting. The innovative design addresses the environmental and operational challenges associated with traditional photovoltaic tiles, providing a more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution for building-integrated photovoltaics.

CN205276724U-patent-drawing

26. Modular Photovoltaic Cell Housing with Open Front Face and Integrated Cable Passage for Facade Installation

UNIV EAFIT, 2016

Modular photovoltaic cell installation system for exterior building facades. The system comprises a structural element comprising a housing with an open front face, where the open face accommodates a lid containing the photovoltaic elements. The housing features connection holes for cable passage between structural elements, allowing for unified electrical systems. The system enables efficient integration of photovoltaic cells on vertical facades by providing a modular, tile-like structure that can be connected in series or parallel. The structural element's open design allows for precise assembly and cable management, while the lid provides a secure mounting point for the photovoltaic elements.

27. Integrated Solar Panel and Insulation Tiles for Flat Roof Installation

GUANGXI NANNING GLOBAL HIYAD NEW BUILDING MATERIAL CO LTD, Guangxi Nanning Global Huishi New Building Materials Co., Ltd., 2015

Solar panel insulation tiles for flat roofs that enable simultaneous installation of solar panels and insulation while eliminating the need for separate installation teams. The tiles feature integrated solar cells and insulation components, allowing workers to complete both tasks at the same time. The system ensures weather-tight seals and durable performance, making it particularly suitable for urban flat roofs and single-story buildings.

28. Thermal Barrier Tile with Integrated Metal Film and Solar Panel Layers Over Brick Core

NINGBO SHENTAI DRY POWDER BUILDING MATERIAL CO LTD, 宁波申泰干粉建材有限公司, 2015

A thermal barrier tile with enhanced insulation properties through a novel structural configuration. The tile comprises a brick core, a metal film heat-conduction layer, a solar panel layer, and a veneer layer. The metal film layer is integrated with the solar panel layer, while the brick layer is positioned between the metal film and the veneer. This configuration enables the tile to achieve both thermal insulation and solar energy absorption, while the brick core provides structural integrity.

29. Integrated Solar Panel and Insulation Tiles for Flat Roofs with Weather-Resistant and Dust-Proof Features

HUGELIONS NEW MATERIAL CO LTD, 2015

Solar panel insulation tiles for flat roofs that integrate both insulation and solar panels into a single, integrated system. The tiles contain integrated solar cells and insulation components, eliminating the need for separate installation of insulation and solar panels. This integrated system enables simultaneous installation of both components, reducing construction time and labor requirements for building owners. The system also incorporates weather-resistant and dust-proof components for reliable performance in various environmental conditions.

CN105155786A-patent-drawing

30. Three-Layered Solar Wall with Thermal Barrier, Vacuum Insulation, and Specialized Surface Coating

SAUMIL P PATEL, 2015

3-layered solar wall construction that prevents heat transfer from the rear of solar panels to the interior of a building while maintaining comfortable temperatures. The system employs a three-layer approach: a thermal barrier between the roof and wall, a vacuum insulation layer between the wall and panel, and a specialized surface coating on the exterior wall. This configuration delays the heat transfer from the solar panels to the interior, reducing thermal loads and energy consumption. The system also addresses common issues associated with traditional solar panel installations, such as heat buildup and maintenance costs.

31. Building Envelope with Integrated Photovoltaic Panels and Passive Thermal Regulation Features

PARAMOSHKO VLADIMIR ALEKSANDROVICH, PARAMOSHKO VLADIMIR ALEKSANDROVICH, 2015

Building-integrated photovoltaic systems that integrate solar panels into building envelopes to enhance energy efficiency through passive solar heating and cooling.

32. Solar Energy Battery with Integrated Durable Backplate for Enhanced Thermal Stability and Environmental Resistance

CHINA BUILDING MATERIALS ACADEMY, China Building Materials Academy, 2015

A solar energy battery that eliminates the environmental issues associated with traditional photovoltaic battery backplates. The battery features a backplate made from a durable, high-performance material that provides excellent thermal stability and resistance to environmental degradation. The backplate is integrated into the solar panel assembly and serves as a single component that protects both the photovoltaic cells and the electrical connections. This eliminates the need for separate backplates and their associated environmental concerns, while maintaining the high efficiency and reliability of conventional solar energy systems.

33. Vacuum-Insulated Glass Tile with Selective Absorber Coating and Integrated Mounting Holes

WANG AN, Wang An, 2015

Vacuum-insulated glass tile for building exterior walls that integrates solar energy harvesting and thermal insulation. The tile features a hollow, vacuum-insulated core with six glass faces, where the rear face is coated with a selective absorber. The tile's glass faces are mechanically bonded to the core, while the rear face is coated with a selective absorber to maximize solar energy absorption. Mounting holes enable easy installation. The tile's vacuum insulation and selective coating enable efficient energy harvesting while maintaining thermal insulation properties.

34. Concrete Masonry Unit with Integrated Photovoltaic Cells and Specialized Mounting System

EQBAL DAVID, 2015

Photovoltaic Solar Masonry (PSM) is a novel building component that integrates photovoltaic cells into masonry units, enabling permanent integration of renewable energy into architectural structures. The component comprises a load-bearing concrete block with integrated photovoltaic cells and a specialized casing system that enables secure mounting of the photovoltaic units. The photovoltaic cells are mounted through specialized bolts with integrated wire pathways, allowing power to be transferred to a battery storage unit for later conversion to AC output. This integrated solution enables permanent renewable energy incorporation into building structures while maintaining architectural integrity.

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