An IFC-Based BIPV Digital Product Model to Facilitate Information Exchange in the BIM Environment

Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) play a critical role in the development of nearly Zero-Energy Buildings (nZEB) by enabling energy generation through photovoltaic systems integrated into building components. However, the widespread adoption of BIPV is hindered by the lack of comprehensive digital models that facilitate the seamless exchange of information within Building Information Modelling (BIM) environments. This research aims to address this gap by developing a BIPV digital product model based on the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) schema, focusing on the Australian context. The study begins by identifying key BIPV product attributes and use cases across the project lifecycle, including conceptual design, detailed design, construction, operation, and decommissioning phases. Through expert interviews and case study validation, this research compiles a comprehensive list of product attributes required to support BIPV design, implementation, and lifecycle management. An Information Delivery Manual (IDM) is developed to map BIPV digital product requirements against process maps and exchange requirements, ensuring effective information exchange across BIM platforms. To integrate BIPV products into the IFC schema, this research evaluates multiple extension options for representing BIPV elements within the existing IFC framework. The study proposes the most suitable BIPV extension method, ensuring compatibility with IFC standards. A validation process, involving industry professionals and real-world case studies, confirms the effectiveness of the proposed IFC extensions in supporting BIPV applications. The findings indicate that the enhanced IFC schema can accurately represent BIPV product information, improving accessibility and data exchange in BIM environments. This research contributes to advancing the digitalization of BIPV products in BIM, facilitating their adoption in Australia’s building sector, and providing a foundation for future research on sustainable building technologies.