What is Build Solar?
Build Solar is an innovative project born from years of research at the University of Exeter, aiming to revolutionize how buildings generate energy. Instead of relying solely on traditional rooftop solar panels, Build Solar embeds photovoltaic (PV) technology directly into conventional building materials. This means turning everyday construction elements into energy generators. The team, led by entrepreneur and solar scientist Dr. Hasan Baig alongside renewable energy expert Professor Tapas K. Mallick, is pushing the boundaries of integrated solar technologies. Their goal? To create solar solutions that blend seamlessly with building architecture, making energy generation a natural part of the structure itself.
The Main Benefit of Build Solar
Buildings worldwide consume more than 40% of the electricity produced, which is a huge chunk! But standard solar tech often hits a wall—literally—because it needs lots of space and can sometimes look, well, a bit out of place. Build Solar tackles these challenges head-on by embedding solar tech into building materials, offering:
- Over 40% of global electricity consumption attributed to buildings
- Innovative “Solar Squared” glass bricks that generate electricity, provide daylighting, and improve thermal insulation
- Reduced visual impact compared to traditional solar panels
- Energy generation in places where demand is highest—right in the building envelope
- Affordable and efficient solar solutions integrated into everyday construction
How Build Solar’s Technology Works
At the heart of Build Solar’s approach is the fusion of cutting-edge solar tech with conventional construction materials. Supported by ongoing research at the University of Exeter, the project transforms materials like glass blocks into multifunctional products. Their first patent-pending innovation, Solar Squared, turns these widely used glass blocks into energy-producing units that also enhance daylighting and thermal insulation. This clever combination opens doors to new markets and makes solar energy deployment in urban environments more practical and attractive.
The Vision Behind Build Solar
The vision is clear and ambitious: to overcome the limitations of standard solar technology by making solar power a natural part of the building’s fabric. Buildings consume a massive share of electricity globally, yet rooftop solar panels often require large areas and can negatively affect a building’s appearance. Build Solar wants to change that by creating integrated, affordable, efficient, and attractive solar technologies that fit right into the architecture. The aim is to generate power where it’s needed most, with minimal impact on the landscape and quality of life. It’s about making solar energy invisible but impactful.
Recent Milestones and Achievements
Build Solar has been making waves with several exciting developments and recognitions. In February 2023, the project received a significant funding boost of £271,933 to develop the Solar Squared glass brick, enabling buildings to generate their own power through their walls. Earlier, in November 2020, the team won the Sustainable Innovation Fund: SBRI Phase 1 competition, highlighting the project’s potential in sustainable technology. Other milestones include the launch of the Smart Walls project and various introductions to building-integrated photovoltaics, all marking steady progress toward mainstream adoption.
Build Solar’s Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – by providing innovative solar solutions integrated into buildings
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – through cutting-edge research and technology development
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – enabling urban environments to generate their own clean energy
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – by creating multifunctional building materials that reduce energy waste
- SDG 13: Climate Action – contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions by promoting renewable energy
Contact and Collaboration Opportunities
Build Solar operates out of the Environment and Sustainability Institute at the University of Exeter’s Penryn Campus in Cornwall. For those interested in learning more or exploring collaboration, the team can be reached via email at info@buildsolar.co.uk or by phone at +44 (0) 1326 259490. The project welcomes participation from stakeholders eager to be part of the future of integrated solar technology and sustainable building design.
