Architectural Solar Solutions

The cornerstone of Lumos Solar is our uniquely beautiful solar panels.

Traditional solar systems often involve mounting panels on rooftops or installing large-scale ground-mounted arrays. However, as the demand for renewable energy has grown—and the need to optimize limited urban space has increased—Lumos pioneered a new approach. As a result, our patented architectural solar products have redefined the boundaries of the solar industry by turning everyday structures into sources of both shade and power.

To achieve this, Lumos architectural solar solutions use frameless photovoltaic (PV) modules that can be installed directly into buildings, structures, and architectural plans. This approach delivers top-tier energy performance with a clean, modern look. Some of our most innovative and effective solutions include our solar carports, canopies, awnings, walkways, pergolas, and building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV)—even on curved and vertical facades.

Our Vision Module System and ClearVision Module System –  offer flexible design options, making it easy to combine solar power and shade in unique, customizable ways. These systems are durable, weather-resistant, and feature dual-sided glass panels that collect sunlight from both sides.

Today, solar technology has moved beyond conventional rooftop panels, and iconic brands and companies have embraced Lumos’ architectural solar solutions. Discover how Lumos architectural solar designs can add cutting-edge technology and aesthetic elements to your projects.

The Future of Architectural Solar

As cities push toward net-zero energy targets and businesses seek sustainable solutions, architectural solar is set to play a crucial role in the future of the built environment. Thanks to improvements in module efficiency, durability, and design customization, the possibilities for integrating solar power into everyday structures continue to expand. 

When architectural solar adoption grows, the places we live and work will evolve into a more self-sufficient, clean energy-powered ecosystem that benefits businesses, communities, and the planet alike.

Here’s a breakdown of architectural solar’s key advantages:

  1. Clean Energy Generation: Architectural solar systems, like canopies and awnings, produce renewable energy directly at the point of use. In doing so, they reduce the reliance on fossil fuels and lower electricity costs.
  2. Optimized Space Usage: By integrating solar technology into existing structures or new designs, architectural solar makes use of unused space. Rooftops, parking lots, walkways, or building facades consolidate solar without requiring additional land.
  3. Enhanced Aesthetics: Modern solar modules can complement architectural designs, creating futuristic or even artistic installations. In particular, bifacial modules, like the ones we use, add visual interest by capturing light from both sides to create dynamic lighting effects.
  4. Weather Protection and Comfort: Solar canopies, awnings, and walkways offer shade and shelter from rain, snow, and sunlight, thereby improving outdoor spaces for vehicles and people walking by or sitting down. 
  5. Increased Property Value: Buildings with solar built into its structure often see higher property values due to reduced operating costs, sustainability features, and increased resilience against rising energy prices.
  6. Resilience and Energy Independence: Producing energy where it is used reduces reliability on utility companies, which is particularly valuable during power outages or in remote locations.
  7. Reduced Carbon Footprint: Solar energy is clean and renewable, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and helping to meet climate targets.
  8. Customizable Designs: With features like custom cell layouts, curved designs, and integrated lighting or EV charging, architectural solar solutions can be tailored to meet specific project needs while also enhancing functionality and aesthetics.

Lumos also offers AIA CE credits to learn more about integrating solar into architectural designs. AIA is a great resource for bringing the latest solar style ideas to your projects.

Lumos Architectural Solar Solutions That Have You Covered.

  • Solar Carports

    Solar carports are among the most practical and widespread applications of architectural solar. These systems feature overhead solar modules for shade, weather protection, and renewable energy.

  • Solar Walkways

    Solar walkways extend the functionality of architectural solar into pedestrian spaces and building exteriors, and are particularly valuable for campuses, transit hubs, and commercial buildings.

  • Solar Awnings and Canopies

    Solar awnings and canopies bring a unique aesthetic component to architectural solar for residential and commercial spaces. They can cover outdoor dining areas, parks, courtyards, and more.

  • Vertical Solar

    Vertical solar facades are changing the way we think about solar. Not only do they save space, but they also boost energy production, support bold architectural designs, and are resistant to harsh weather.

  • Curved Solar

    Curved solar facades capture more sunlight, and push the architectural envelope with their visually striking design and versatility in installation.

  • Solar Charging Tables

    The Lumos SolarZone harnesses power from the sun, while providing a shaded seating area in communal settings like parks and corporate campuses where people can charge their devices.

Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV)

Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) take solar technology to the next level. Specifically, they place PV modules directly into a building’s outer walls or surfaces. Instead of traditional covering materials, these structures use solar panels as an essential component of the building’s design.

Key Applications:
  • Solar Facades: Vertical solar panels replace traditional building materials, generating energy while maintaining modern appearances.
  • Solar Glass: Transparent or semi-transparent PV glass can be used in windows, skylights, and curtain walls to produce electricity without blocking natural light.
  • Roofing Systems: BIPV panels can replace standard roofing materials, providing both structural integrity and solar energy generation.
Benefits of BIPV:
  • Enhanced Aesthetics: Unlike conventional panels, BIPV solutions blend smoothly with architectural designs.
  • Energy Savings: Solar-integrated facades reduce cooling loads by limiting solar heat gain while generating electricity.
  • Space Optimization: BIPV eliminates the need for separate solar installations, making it ideal for urban environments.
  • Durability and Strength: The strongest BIPV solutions feature glass-on-glass construction, providing superior protection from weather and longevity.

The Growing Role of Vertical Solar Facades

One of the most exciting trends in architectural solar is the development of solar built into walls. Because rooftop solar is limited by space and orientation, especially in densely populated cities where rooftop access is constrained, vertical facades provide an opportunity to capture energy from sunlight throughout the day.

Why Vertical Solar Makes Sense:
  • Maximized Surface Area: High-rise buildings have significant vertical real estate that can be leveraged for solar energy production.
  • Improved Energy Capture: Bifacial vertical solar panels can harvest sunlight from reflections off surrounding buildings, streets, and surfaces.
  • Architectural Harmony: Unlike rooftop solar, vertical BIPV is designed from the ground up to be an integral part of a building’s aesthetic.

Innovative transparent and colored PV technology makes vertical solar facades a smart, flexible choice for meeting sustainability goals.

Transform your next project with architectural solar. Start now.

Related Products

Example Projects

Vision Module System
View Details
Portland Electric Utility
View Details
Miami Residential SolarScape
View Details

Find a Lumos Preferred Installer Near You

Downloads