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Could photovoltaic concrete be the future of architecture?

Header Image via Architect Magazine. Several recent advancements in photovoltaic construction signal that energy-generating concrete could play a larger role in the future of architecture. Two cases in particular, stand out in their recent contributions to the burgeoning field of photovoltaic concrete.

Is photovoltaic concrete ready for commercial building work?

The company has now promised a large-scale rollout of the tiles in 2019. Getting photovoltaic concrete ready for actual commercial building work will probably be no easier. The era of photovoltaic concrete may be getting closer.

Who makes photovoltaic concrete panels?

In November 2017, Swiss firm LafargeHolcim—the world’s largest cement maker—and Heliatek, a German solar-panels company, debuted photovoltaic concrete panels at French construction fair Batimat, according to Architizer. These panels are concrete with built-in ultra-think solar panels that can be delivered as is on site.

What is a photovoltaic concrete structure?

Researchers of the Block Research Group at ETH Zurich have developed an ultra-thin, self-supporting, photovoltaic concrete structure with multiple layers of functionality. Beyond just power generation, this incredibly sinuous structure offers thermal regulation, insulation and waterproofing properties.

Is the era of photovoltaic concrete getting closer?

The era of photovoltaic concrete may be getting closer. Photovoltaics, which work by converting light to energy via semiconducting, are starting to migrate from solar panels into the building materials themselves.

How thick is a photovoltaic concrete shell?

At an average thickness of approximately two-inches, this work provides endless insights for the future of photovoltaic concrete, and demonstrates that it is possible to build a thin concrete shell using flexible formwork and photovoltaic elements. Research Photovoltaics Manufacturers