Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV):

Photovoltaic materials can be used to replace conventional building materials in parts of building envelopes, such as roof tiles, skylights, or windows/facades. The advantage of BIPV over more common non-integrated PV systems is that the initial cost can be offset by the amount spent on building materials and labor that would normally be used to construct the part of the building that the BIPV modules replace. In addition, since BIPV is an integral part of the design, it is more aesthetically appealing.

These advantages make BIPV one of the fastest growing segments of the photovoltaic industry, and merit a strong BIPV marketing initiative to developers, architects, and planners.