Businesses and individuals alike are beginning to see the benefits of using solar power for some or all of their energy needs. Solar power is renewable and has historically only been hindered by cost in its widespread adoption. Photovoltaic panels have been decreasing in price and are now a good option for existing structures. The future holds many more possibilities, though, in the form of building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV).BIPV replace normal construction materials used on the outside of buildings. Because of this, the cost is generally much smaller than it would be to later install panels. The practice started in the 1970s on remote buildings where electric access was otherwise limited, but it grew in popularity in the 1990s when BIPV materials became commercially available.These photovoltaic materials can be used on the roofs, facades, or glazing of new and existing buildings. Builders have the option of either flat thin-film solar cells (for flat roofs) or solar shingles designed for pitched roofs. Just imagine the money that your home or business could save if the roof above your head was drawing in power.For an example of a photovoltaic faade at work, consider Manchester, England’s Co-operative Insurance Tower, which was outfitted with photovoltaic tiles in 2005. The timing was perfect, as these panels replaced the tower’s dulled and aging original tiles. The building now feeds energy into the UK’s National Grid.A new type of transparent solar panels can replace glass in windows and skylights. Using a tin oxide coating, these panels conduct current out of the solar cell to the surface of the pane. These translucent models also differ from “traditional” solar cells in that they use ultraviolet radiation, in addition to visible and infrared light, to generate electricity.Your state may be eligible for certain financial incentives regarding BIPV. The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency is a complete guide to the options available in all 50 American states, Washington, D.C., and U.S. territories. The Database is maintained by the North Carolina Solar Center and the Interstate Renewable Energy Council.Even if BIPV are not an option for your organization, don’t discount the benefits of solar power just yet. There may still be an advantage to installing stand-alone solar panel systems. These panels may just point the way to a bright future for you and your neighborhood.