International Publication on the Future of Solar Architecture
07 April, 2026
The publication focuses on the question of how knowledge about building-integrated photovoltaics can be better communicated. Momir Tabakovic, a representative of the Vienna University of UAS Technikum Wien, also contributed to the publication.
UAS Technikum Wien contributed to the international publication “BIPV: Education and Training Activities for Solar Architecture”, which was published as part of IEA PVPS Task 15 (International Energy Agency Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme).
Contribution by UAS Technikum Wien
Momir Tabakovic (Head of the Renewable Energy Technologies division) served as one of the lead authors of this publication.
The report was produced by an international team of authors from research institutions and universities worldwide and addresses key issues related to the integration of photovoltaics into architecture (Building-Integrated Photovoltaics, BIPV). This field combines energy and building technology with architectural design and plays a crucial role in the energy transition within the building sector.
Key Focus Areas of the Publication
In particular, the publication analyzes the current state of education and training programs in the field of solar architecture and identifies structural challenges:
- Despite technological maturity, BIPV remains only a niche market (approx. 1–3% of the PV market)
- Causes include a lack of interdisciplinary skills, fragmented responsibilities, and insufficient training opportunities
- At the same time, there is a growing need for qualified professionals who integrate energy, architecture, and digital planning
A key finding is that while existing educational offerings are diverse, they are often not sufficiently integrated into regular degree programs and are highly fragmented.
Implications for Research and Teaching
The findings of the publication provide important impetus for:
- the further development of degree programs in the field of renewable energy and building technology
- the promotion of interdisciplinary competencies across engineering, architecture, and digitalization
- the training of professionals for climate-neutral buildings and cities
International Context
The publication is part of the activities of the International Energy Agency (IEA) and was developed in collaboration with partner institutions from Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America.
Further Information:
Images from the Publication:
SolarchitecTOUR, a tour of solar buildings in Milan organized by SUPSI in collaboration with ETAFlorence as part of WCPEC 2022 and supported by ENEA, Sunage, and Onyx Solar. Photo credit: ETA Florence
Participants in the “Solarchitecture Essentials” course take part in hands-on activities, including a visit to outdoor facilities. The course was organized by SUPSI as part of the European SEAMLESS-PV project. (2025 edition, Madrid, Spain) Photo credit: SUPSI
Visit to the materials library at SUPSI as part of the sixth lecture in the “Solar Architecture” course: group work focusing on the study of solar materials. Photo credit: SUPSI
Visit to the materials library at SUPSI as part of the sixth lecture in the “Solar Architecture” course: group work focusing on the study of solar materials. Photo credit: SUPSI
Bachelor-students (left) and Master-students (right) toured CIEMAT’s BIPV systems as part of a guided tour. Photo credit: CIEMAT
Practical exercises from the 2025 “Solarchitecture Essentials” courses and on-site visits during the event in Ticino (Switzerland). Photo credit: SUPSI
A visit to the Onyx Solar production facility during the event in Madrid (Spain). Photo credit: SUPSI