A Post-evaluation of Social Dimensions of BIPV Adoption in Case Studies Buildings Across Diverse European Contexts
Abstract
Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) are building skin cladding components that combine technical and economic functions through photovoltaic elements for energy generation with aesthetic, cultural and symbolic values to raise architectural identity of buildings. This dual function renders BIPVs both innovative and complex, posing technical, aesthetic, and social challenges for designers, users, and for both private and public stakeholders during the design, construction, and operation phases of building projects. While existing literature widely focuses on BIPV technical performance, energy generation and profitability, there is still way long path to address social factors and stakeholder dynamics shaping BIPP adoption. Framed within IEA PVPS Task 15 – Subtask A3 “BIPV in our society”, this study aims to provide a post-evaluation of social dimensions of five BIPV case study buildings across diverse European contexts through a qualitative analysis of a total of 21 semi-structured interviews conducted with public and private stakeholders and end users. The data analysis mapped recurring challenges and documented perceived social impacts. Findings reveal that BIPV consistently generates social value beyond energy performance, and case study buildings are demonstrators reinforcing institutional identity and stimulating public discourse on urban sustainability. However, case study buildings face interconnected technical, regulatory, financial, and procedural barriers amplified by low social awareness and fragmented stakeholder coordination. The findings suggest: i) the development of Key Performance Indicators for the post-evaluation of social dimensions to allow private and public stakeholders and people to assess the BIPV adoption; ii) the need for co-participation processes to address contextual factors in the early design phases of the project. Such practice can raise the social awareness on BIPV adoption and facilitate highest social impacts.
Keywords
BIPV Social impact, Case Studies Challenges, Public and Private Stakeholders, People