BIPV market to reach $4 billion in annual sales by 2016

Historically, building-integrated photovoltaics has been relegated to a niche market because solar modules and panels have simply cost too much and have been too difficult to install on residential and commercial roofs as well as building walls, windows and other parts of the building structure. Additionally, production of BIPV products with appealing aesthetics has been limited. Starting in 2010, however, BIPV market dynamics will change and worldwide demand for solar panels, shingles and modules will surge to almost 2.4 GW by 2016, according to a Pike research report.