Understanding the failure mechanisms of building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) under different thermal and mechanical conditions

This study addresses the fire safety challenges associated with Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) in modern construction. Representing both a functional building envelope component and a renewable energy source, BIPV offers a sustainable path to energy efficiency in a sector responsible for 40% of the European Union’s total energy use [01]. However, due to the unique characteristics of BIPV, current European fire testing standards do not cover all BIPV features. This initial research outlines a general fire safety assessment and explores modifications to adapt existing tests, such as the Single Burning Item (SBI) test (EN 13823) [02], paired with EN ISO 11925-2 [03] for flame ignition classification under EN 13501-1 [04]. By refining these protocols, the study aims to create standardized fire testing methods specific to BIPV, enhancing result reproducibility and ensuring safer integration of BIPV systems in construction.