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Photovoltaic Panels
SUSTAINABILITY & URBAN DESIGNbeginnerPV
Definition
Solar panels that convert sunlight directly into electricity through the photovoltaic effect. In architecture, PV panels are installed on roofs or facades to generate on-site renewable electricity. Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) incorporate the panels directly into the building skin as cladding or glazing.
Example
The Solaire Building in New York (2003) was one of the first green residential towers in the US, incorporating PV panels on its south facade to offset a portion of its electricity consumption.