Everything You Need to Know About Building-Integrated Solar in Canada

Introduction

Solar panels don’t just belong on rooftops anymore. In fact, they don’t have to “look like” solar panels at all. Thanks to building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), architects and engineers across Canada are turning walls, windows, and facades into clean power generators—without sacrificing curb appeal.

This post will walk you through how BIPV works, where it’s already being used in Canada, and why it’s a smart, space-saving solution for cities aiming for net-zero buildings. Whether you’re designing a new home or just curious about next-gen solar, we’ve got you covered.

What Is Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV)?

BIPV refers to solar panels that are embedded directly into a building’s architecture—replacing parts of the roof, windows, or exterior walls—rather than being mounted on top.

Common BIPV Applications:

• Solar windows or curtain walls
• Solar roof shingles or tiles
• Vertical PV siding or cladding
• Canopies and skylights

Unlike traditional solar, BIPV serves two roles: energy generation and building enclosure.

Why it’s ideal for Canada:

• Space-saving for urban buildings with small or shaded rooftops
• Integrated insulation and weatherproofing properties
• Aesthetic control in heritage or high-design zones

Where Is BIPV Being Used in Canada Today?

While still emerging, BIPV has started showing up in real-world Canadian projects.

Canadian Examples:

• Concordia Solar Pavilion (Montreal, QC): Uses vertical solar curtain walls for clean energy and passive lighting.
• UBC Bioenergy Facility (Vancouver, BC): Combines BIPV glass with biomass to power and heat university buildings.
• Nanticoke Solar (ON): Ontario’s former coal plant now hosts solar modules including vertical applications for testing.

Bonus:
Canada’s northern latitude actually benefits BIPV vertical walls in winter months when the sun stays low in the sky.

What Are the Benefits of BIPV in Canadian Buildings?

Energy + Aesthetics:

• Seamlessly blends into modern or heritage designs
• Can qualify as both a renewable upgrade and building material cost

Seasonal Performance:

• Vertical or south-facing facades collect winter sun better than flat rooftops
• Reduces snow-cover issues common with angled panels

Cost Efficiency (Over Time):

• While initial costs are higher, combining building envelope and solar function can reduce long-term costs
• Paired with incentives, net cost approaches that of traditional solar + cladding

Tip:
If you’re renovating or building from scratch, BIPV can be a smarter long-term investment than bolting panels on after the fact.

What Are the Challenges to Adoption in Canada?

While promising, BIPV adoption is still limited by:

• Higher upfront cost per square metre than rooftop PV
• Limited local supply chains and certified contractors
• Building code uncertainties in some provinces
• Lack of widespread rebate eligibility compared to rooftop systems

Practical Advice:

• Work with designers experienced in passive house and net-zero buildings
• Look for federal or provincial innovation funding (e.g., CleanBC Commercial Innovation stream)
• Use vertical BIPV as a complement to rooftop solar where shading is an issue

How Can I Find Out If BIPV Is Right for My Building?

If you’re in early-stage design or planning, consider:

• Your building orientation and façade exposure
• Provincial rules on solar energy and construction materials
• Local contractors or architects with BIPV experience
• Whether there’s net metering or feed-in-tariff support in your region

You can also skip the guesswork.

Use Solenery Insights to find:

• Local BIPV-compatible installers
• Available incentives in your province
• Whether your site qualifies for solar facade solutions

Conclusion

Building-integrated photovoltaics are Canada’s next frontier in urban solar—and they’re already making buildings smarter, cleaner, and better looking. With the right planning and design, your home or office can generate power directly from its walls.