The lightweight rooftop solar PV market is growing rapidly, driven by advanced materials like thin-film and polymer-based tech, making panels 30–60% lighter than traditional systems. Ideal for commercial and industrial rooftops with load constraints, these systems support broader urban adoption. Backed by incentives like the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act and the European Green Deal, as well as rising interest in building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), lightweight solar PV is becoming key to distributed renewable energy. Despite concerns around efficiency and durability, ongoing innovation continues to enhance performance and accelerate global adoption.
The lightweight rooftop solar PV market is growing rapidly, driven by advancements in durable materials and the rise of building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV). With a focus on sustainability and energy efficiency, lightweight panels, including thin-film and frameless designs, are ideal for commercial and industrial rooftops with limited load capacity. Emerging technologies like ventilated BIPV systems are improving efficiency.
According to BIS Research, the lightweight rooftop solar PV market will grow from 3,297.5 MW in 2023 to 4,582.2 MW by 2034.
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Segmentation 1: Based on Type
Rigid
Flexible
Segmentation 2: Based on Region
North America (U.S., Canada, Mexico)
Europe (Germany, France, Italy, Belgium, Greece, U.K., Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Bulgaria, Austria, Switzerland, Hungary, and Rest-of-Europe)
Rest-of-the-World (Japan and Others of Rest-of-the-World)
Access Market Insights on Lightweight Rooftop Solar PV Market
In June 2024, GAF Energy, backed by the U.S. Department of Energy, announced a new solar roofing testing facility to advance building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV). This facility will focus on optimizing solar shingles for home heating and cooling efficiency.
In September 2024, Nanjing University of Science and Technology unveiled a ventilated BIPV (VL-BIPV) system, featuring flexible, lightweight modules with a polymer front layer and airflow channels to improve efficiency and lower operating temperatures. The system’s 21.04% PV efficiency makes it ideal for rooftops with low load capacities.
In December 2023, AGC Inc. installed its Sunjoule BIPV glass at Shizuoka Station, generating 3.7 kW of solar power, showcasing the growing trend of integrating solar technology into building materials for sustainable energy solutions.
Market Drivers
The rise in renewable energy targets and sustainability goals is driving the adoption of lightweight rooftop solar PV systems. These panels offer a solution for buildings with load limitations, boosting adoption in commercial and industrial buildings.
Market Challenges
Lightweight solar panels made from polymers and thin films face durability issues, degrading faster than traditional panels in harsh environments. Thin-film technologies like CIGS and CdTe also have shorter lifespans and warranties.
Market Opportunities
Off-grid and mobile applications present growth opportunities for lightweight solar PV. Ideal for remote areas and disaster relief, these panels are gaining traction in markets like RVs, boats, and remote cabins, with companies like FlexSolar leading the way.
Analyst Perspective
According to Dhrubajyoti Narayan from BIS Research, the lightweight rooftop solar PV market is growing rapidly, driven by technological advancements and regulatory support. The shift to building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) and high-efficiency panels is enabling solar adoption in commercial and industrial sectors with structural limitations. Despite challenges like efficiency and durability, ongoing R&D and policy incentives are driving market growth, with Europe and North America leading, and Asia-Pacific emerging as a high-growth region.
