UK Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) Market Expected to reach $0.5 Billion by 2033

According to a new report published by Allied Market Research titled, “UK Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) Market Technology, Application, and End-Use: Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2024–2033.” The UK building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) market was valued at $0.1 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $0.5 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 15.2% from 2025 to 2034.

Introduction

BIPV refers to photovoltaic systems that are integrated directly into the building envelope, such as roofs, facades, windows, or skylights. Unlike traditional solar panels that are mounted on existing structures, BIPV systems replace conventional building materials, serving dual purposes: acting as building components while generating electricity. This integration not only contributes to energy production but also enhances the building's aesthetic appeal and reduces the need for additional mounting structures.

In the residential industry, BIPV systems are increasingly being adopted for their aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency. Solar roof tiles and shingles, which mimic traditional roofing materials, are popular choices among homeowners seeking to maintain the architectural integrity of their properties. Additionally, BIPV facades and windows are utilized to harness solar energy without compromising on design, making them suitable for both new constructions and retrofitting projects.

Market Dynamics

Rising Demand for Modern Architecture is expected to drive the growth of UK building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) market. One of the most compelling advantages of building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) in the UK is their ability to seamlessly integrate into modern architectural designs. Unlike traditional rooftop solar panels, which are often retrofitted onto buildings as a separate component, BIPV is designed to become part of the building envelope itself. This allows architects and designers to maintain the aesthetic integrity of facades, roofs, and windows while simultaneously incorporating renewable energy generation. In December 2024, the UK government released a revised version of the NPPF, aiming to streamline planning processes and promote sustainable development. This update is expected to facilitate the construction of new homes and infrastructure projects by simplifying approval procedures and enhancing clarity for developers.

However, high initial investment of BIPV system is expected to restraint the growth of UK building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) market. The high initial investment cost of building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) systems in the UK is a significant factor limiting their widespread adoption despite their long-term benefits. The costs for BIPV systems in Europe, including the UK, typically range from 235.47/m² (200€/m²) to 735.85/m² (625€/m²). This is considerably higher than traditional building materials and non-active facades, making the upfront capital expense a substantial barrier for builders and developers. For instance, the photovoltaic (PV) modules themselves account for 43% to 77% of the overall system cost, with European glass-glass modules priced between 141.28/m² (120€/m²) to 294.34/m² (250€/m²) on average. Unique or customized designs can push this price up to around 380€/m². Additionally, Balance of System (BOS) components such as inverters, mounting hardware, and storage systems add another 10% to 16% to the total costs. The installation involves soft costs like design, procurement, construction, permits, and inspections, which can vary widely but also contribute significantly to the overall expenditure.

Segments Overview

The UK building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) market is segmented into technology, application, and enduse. On the basis of technology, the market is divided into crystalline silicon, thin film, and others. On the basis of application, the market is classified into roofs, walls, glass, façade, and others. On the basis of end-use, the market is categorized into residential, commercial, and industrial.

On the basis of technology, the thin film segment is the fastest growing segment in the market growing with the CAGR of 15.5% during the forecast period. In the UK, Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) based on thin film technology are gaining steady traction due to their flexibility, lightweight design, and ability to blend with modern architectural aesthetics. Thin film BIPV systems are commonly used in facades, skylights, and curtain walls, offering architects greater design freedom compared to crystalline silicon modules.

On the basis of application, the roofs segment is the fastest growing segment in the market growing with the CAGR of 15.7% during the forecast period. Roof-integrated BIPV systems are one of the most practical and widely implemented formats due to the large surface area available for solar capture and their ability to replace conventional roofing materials. BIPV roofs are seamlessly embedded into the building envelope, offering both functional and aesthetic advantages. This dual purpose acting as a weatherproof roof covering while simultaneously generating renewable electricity makes them particularly attractive for residential, commercial, and institutional buildings.

On the basis of end-use, the residential segment is the fastest growing segment in the market growing with the CAGR of 15.6% during the forecast period. Retrofitting of BIPV systems in existing homes is also gradually expanding, although uptake is somewhat slower due to higher costs and installation complexities compared to conventional rooftop solar panels. However, ongoing initiatives under schemes like the UK Green Homes Grant and various local authority-backed retrofit programs are pushing homeowners toward energy-efficient upgrades, indirectly supporting BIPV adoption. In dense urban areas, where roof space is often limited, façade integrated PV solutions are particularly relevant for residential flats and apartment complexes, helping maximize solar energy yield without compromising building design.

Competitive Analysis

The major players operating in the UK building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) market include AGC Glass Europe, BIPVco Limited, Spirit Energy, Hanergy Thin Film Power Group Europe, Ertex Solar, Onyx Solar, Viridian Solar Ltd, Polysolar, ROMAG, and Solex Energy Ltd.

Key Findings of the Study:

• On the basis of technology, the crystalline silicon segment registered the highest market share accounting for one third of the market share in 2024.
• On the basis of application, the roofs segment garnered the highest share growing with the CAGR of 15.7% during the forecast period.
• On the basis of end-use, commercial segment dominated the UK building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) market.