INCREASE Summer School 2026 Brought Together Experts to Advance Building-Integrated Photovoltaics
Updated: 5 days ago
A month ago, on 24-25 August 2026, the INCREASE project hosted the Summer School at EnergyVille in Genk, Belgium, bringing together students, researchers, industry experts and stakeholders from across Europe to explore the latest developments in Integrated Photovoltaics (IPV) and Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV).
Organised by KU Leuven and SolarPower Europe, the two-day programme provided participants with a unique opportunity to learn from leading experts working across the photovoltaic, building and construction sectors. Through a combination of lectures, site visits, laboratory tours and interactive discussions, participants explored both the technical and non-technical aspects of integrating solar technologies into buildings.
The Summer School opened with welcome remarks from Jens Moschner (KU Leuven/EnergyVille) and Bram De Wispelaere (EnergyVille), who introduced the objectives of the event and highlighted the role of research, innovation and cross-sector collaboration in accelerating Europe's energy transition. Participants then gained valuable insights into the industrial reality of BIPV from Stefan Dewallef (Soltech), who presented practical applications of building-integrated solar solutions and guided participants through Soltech's manufacturing facilities, showcasing real-life examples of BIPV products and projects.
Throughout the event, participants explored the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating photovoltaics into buildings. Maaike Berckmoes (Arcora) explained how architectural vision and technical requirements can be successfully combined in BIPV projects, presenting approaches to façade design and project development.
Meanwhile, Patrizio Manganiello (UHasselt/EnergyVille) discussed future trends in integrated photovoltaics and the role BIPV can play in achieving Europe's climate and energy objectives.
Several sessions focused on the technical integration of photovoltaics within buildings and energy systems. Simon Ravyts (KU Leuven/EnergyVille) presented different approaches to PV electrical system design and optimisation, while Johan Driesen (KU Leuven/EnergyVille) examined the broader electrification of buildings and the significant changes expected in future energy systems.
The second day highlighted the operational and market dimensions of BIPV deployment. Jan Diriken (VITO/EnergyVille) explored how energy management systems and building simulation tools can improve the effective use of locally generated solar energy. Dieter Moor (Arconsol) shared practical lessons learned from implementing BIPV projects, outlining common pitfalls, best practices and the importance of collaboration between architects, manufacturers, installers and building owners.
Participants also had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of reliability and quality considerations in BIPV. Nikoleta Kyranaki (UHasselt) presented the complex landscape of testing procedures, reliability requirements and standards that influence the design and long-term performance of integrated PV solutions.
The programme also addressed one of the key barriers to wider deployment: project financing. During a dedicated session, Anna Pomortseva (SolarPower Europe) and Johann Erik Kukk (Institute of Baltic Studies) introduced participants to European and national funding opportunities available for integrated PV projects. The discussion highlighted the diversity of funding frameworks across Europe and provided practical guidance for navigating project financing and implementation.
Beyond the lectures, participants toured the EnergyVille laboratories and research facilities, gaining first-hand insight into cutting-edge research on photovoltaics, energy systems and building technologies. These visits complemented the classroom sessions and provided a practical perspective on the innovations underpinning the future of BIPV.
The Summer School concluded with an interactive group discussion on how to accelerate the uptake of BIPV across Europe. Participants examined policy and regulatory barriers, financing challenges, stakeholder collaboration, technology integration and societal acceptance. A recurring theme throughout the discussions was the need for stronger cooperation between the photovoltaic and construction sectors, as well as improved awareness of the benefits that integrated solar technologies can bring to buildings and communities.
The INCREASE Summer School demonstrated the growing interest in Building-Integrated Photovoltaics and the importance of bringing together researchers, industry actors, policymakers and future professionals. By combining technical expertise, real-world experience and collaborative dialogue, the event contributed to building the knowledge and partnerships needed to support the wider deployment of integrated photovoltaics across Europe.
The INCREASE consortium thanks all speakers, participants and organisers for their valuable contributions and looks forward to continuing the dialogue on the future of integrated solar solutions through upcoming project activities and invites it’s network to book the date for INCREASE Summer School 2027.
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