Mena builders see big jump in BIPV components growth

The construction sector across the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) countries can expect to see an increase in building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) components as the region strives to achieve decarbonisation targets, said experts ahead of an industry event.

The Big 5 Solar will showcase BIPV solutions alongside the largest construction event in the Middle East, The Big 5 from November 26 to 29 at Dubai World Trade Centre. “Over the course of 2018 there will be further innovations in energy and storage technologies along with new regulatory frameworks to boost the solar industry,” stated Gurmeet Kaur, Marketing and Communications Manager at Middle East Solar Industry Association (MESIA). Reporting that buildings account for 40 per cent or more of the energy consumed in cities, the latest ‘BIPV in the Mena Region’ report from MESIA and The Big 5 Solar coins BIPV as a vital clean energy industry. According to Kaur, BIPV components can be designed in a multitude of ways, be it solar facades, solar windows, or even solar roofs which can then be installed in car parks, bus stations, stadiums and even homes. Anoop Babu, Mena Regional Manager of Architectural Solar Association (ASA) said besides helping to save on electricity costs, and increasing overall efficiency, BIPV can truly add a unique visual elegance and architectural beauty to a building.

A contributor to the report, Anoop highlights that BIPV in the region will be defined by upcoming challenges such as the need for country specific regulations and product testing protocols. He pointed out that the ASA have been in talks with major decision makers to develop approaches toward these challenges and forecasts that a positive outcome will come: “We are confident the BIPV market will soon see many changes in regulation, and that BIPV technology will be fully rolled out to help the Mena region succeed in its decarbonisation strategy.” MESIA return to The Big 5 Solar this year as Knowledge Partner for the event. They encourage the gathering of region's solar professionals and provide the community with up to date intelligence. In addition, BIPV will be featured as a CPD (continuing professional development) certified topic aon the education agenda at The Big 5 Solar 2018. BIPV projects in the region include: Dubai Frame with 1,200 sq m PV glass; the Makkah Royal Clock with 233 solar panels on its dome; and Dubai Electricity Authority HQ with 10,000 sq m of BIPV solutions.