Photovoltaic (PV) glass is a technology that allows conversion of light into electricity. This glass is not transparent perfectly; however, it allows some of the available light to pass through it. The PV glazing delivers dual benefits as it is used as a building material and as an energy-generating device. The building which employs substantial amount of PV glazing is able to formulate some electricity through windows and this generated power is considered as green energy. PV glazing is majorly used for windows, curtain walls, building facades, and terrace etc. It enables the energy cost savings and reduces carbon footprint, and further provides better return on investment. Currently, PV glazing materials are increasingly being employed in construction of new buildings and replacing conventional building materials on a large scale.

Market Dynamics

PV glazing shows similar mechanical properties as conventional architectural glass used in construction and is a perfect combination of functionality & aesthetics. Moreover, reduction in carbon footprint is anticipated to drive the demand for PV glazing throughout the forecast period. PV glazing also enables production of its own electricity and is considered as the source of clean & free energy which is expected to boost the market growth. In addition to this, it is a potential substitute for conventional photovoltaic modules and other building materials. This in turn, is projected to be one of the significant opportunities for key players in this market. Furthermore, the major companies in this market are continually involved in research & development for enhancement of cost efficient PV glazing which supports the market growth.

Market Classification and Overview

The global PV glazing market is bifurcated on the basis of type, application and geography. On the basis of type, the market is classified as anti-reflective coated PV glazing, annealed PV glazing, tempered PV glazing, transparent conductive oxide coated PV glazing, and others. The global PV glazing market is also segmented based on application into utility, residential, and non-residential. In near future, the demand for PV glazing in utility application is expected to increase owing to the rise in demand for cost-efficient renewable energy resources.

Regional Overview

The market for PV glazing is segmented into regions such as North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Middle-East and Africa (MEA). Europe was the major contributors to the growth of PV glazing market in 2015, owing to the increase in adoption and installation of PV glazing in this region. Asia-Pacific region is also anticipated to hold a significant share in global market. However, the market for PV glazing in North America is further expected to witness highest growth in coming years owing to the government support in order to develop future with renewable energy. 

Report Coverage

Market Participants

Onyx Solar, PPG Industries Inc., Xinyi Solar, Saint-Gobain, Topray Solar, Taiwan Glass, Changzhou Huamei Photovoltaic Materials Co., Ltd, Avic Sanxin Co. Ltd., NSG Technology, AGC Group, Guardian Industries, and CSG PV Tech Co. Ltd. are the key players in the PV glazing market. These players are involved in continual innovation and novel product development which further support the market growth.

Market Segmentation

Market By Type

·         Anti-Reflective Coated PV Glazing

·         Annealed PV Glazing

·         Tempered PV Glazing

·         Transparent Conductive Oxide Coated PV Glazing

·         Others

Market By Application

·         Utility

·         Residential

·         Non-Residential

Market By Geography

·         North America

o   US

o   Canada

o   Mexico

·         Europe

o   UK

o   Germany

o   France

o   Rest of Europe

·         Asia-Pacific

o   China

o   Japan

o   India

o   Australia

o   Rest of Asia-Pacific

·         Latin America

o   Brazil

o   Rest of Latin America

·         Middle East and Africa (MEA)

o   South Africa

o   Saudi Arabia

o   Rest of MEA