Barriers to the market penetration of façade-integrated solar thermal systems

For this paper, we analyzed the barriers to new façade-integrated solar thermal systems in a survey, literature review and workshops with experts. We focused on flat plate collectors and their application in residential buildings. Integrated systems are technically more challenging than simple roof installations, and we found a lack of knowledge among all participants in the market to be the second most important problem after economic issues. Especially for architects it is very difficult to use solar technologies as a part of their palette due to insufficient education. Especially for façade solutions a stronger awareness of solar technology is required for the selling process. The synergy advantages offered by integrating solar thermal systems into façades are largely unknown by the participants of the market.