What is the Architectural Solar Continuum?

The Architectural Solar Continuum is a framework for understanding and implementing solar energy in architectural design. This approach categorizes projects across 6 levels of solar integration, each impacting coordination requirements, costs, and energy density. The continuum provides architects, designers, and builders with a structured way to conceptualize and plan solar implementations, from basic additions to fully integrated solar solutions.

In this short excerpt from the free Introduction to Architectural Solar course, HeatSpring instructor Chris Klinga breaks down the Continuum. Enroll for free in the Introduction to Architectural Solar course to learn more!

The Architectural Solar Continuum includes six top level categories: site-applied photovoltaics, site-integrated photovoltaics, building-applied photovoltaics, externally integrated BIPV, cladding integrated BIPV, and envelope integrated BIPV.  The Architectural Solar Continuum ranges from least to most integrated.

As one progresses across the continuum and the level of solar integration increases, so does the level of architectural coordination. The left side of the continuum is very adaptable to standard products and lends itself to be less dependent on construction schedules. The right side of the continuum requires a high level of architectural coordination, is rarely adaptable to standard products, and it typically needs to be coordinated with multiple trades and schedules.

So one might ask, why not keep things simple and avoid architectural coordination?  

The thing is, as solar becomes more integrated and complex, the multifunctional benefits increase. As solar components share more costs with building components, the incremental installation cost goes down.  

One of the most interesting and counterintuitive concepts is energy density.

On the left side of the spectrum, you have site-applied photovoltaics that are optimally oriented, but require a fenced off plot of land. On the right side of the spectrum, you have BIPV that is sub optimally oriented, but share space.  

Despite BIPV’s efficiency shortfalls, it holds significant value that should never be overlooked from an energy density perspective. This concept may seem counterintuitive, but we will speak to it as we progress through our content. 

After we review each of the steps along with Continuum, you’ll be more prepared to make decisions that empower you to innovate and fully leverage integrated solutions to optimize project outcomes. Let’s get into it.