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. Photovoltaic Panel with Textured Tempered Glass Cover and Ceramic Pigment Enamel Layer

SAINT GOBAIN, 2022

Photovoltaic panel with improved appearance and reduced thermal stress through a novel glass coating. The panel features a tempered glass cover element with an enamel layer that incorporates ceramic pigments to enhance its optical properties. The enamel layer is applied in a controlled thickness, ensuring optimal mechanical strength and thermal management. The glass cover element's textured surface is strategically covered with the enamel layer, which prevents localized temperature increases typically associated with conventional photovoltaic cells. This innovative approach enables the production of photovoltaic panels with improved aesthetics and reduced thermal stress, making them suitable for building-integrated applications.

WO2022018078A1-patent-drawing

8. 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

9. 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.

10. 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

11. 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

12. 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

13. 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.

14. 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.

15. 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

16. 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.

17. 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.

18. 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.

19. 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.

20. 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

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

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

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

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

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

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