Science Cultivation

Science Cultivation

Sustainable Development with Integrated Photovoltaics: From Technology to Project Governance

Document Type : Promotion Article

Authors
1 Department of Productivity and Project Management, Faculty of Industrial Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran.
2 Department of Productivity and Project Management, Faculty of Industrial Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
Climate change has driven the world toward constructing zero-energy buildings. Traditional silicon solar panels face severe installation limitations in urban areas due to their heavy weight, rigid structure, and high fragility. In recent years, polymer and perovskite solar panels have emerged as highly attractive alternatives for sustainable urban development. These novel panels are completely flexible and can easily transmit visible light. Furthermore, by utilizing advanced tandem architectures, their overall power conversion efficiency has increased significantly. These panels can be directly integrated into building facades to successfully realize the concept of building-integrated photovoltaics. Despite these remarkable technical advancements, the large-scale commercialization of this technology faces major obstacles. Rapid fire spread risks in building facades, severe dust accumulation in arid regions, and high economic complexities are among the most critical challenges. To solve these operational issues, engineers have recently developed green solvents and waterless cleaning robots. This article introduces these novel solar technologies using a simplified language. It thoroughly examines the environmental and safety challenges during the implementation phase. Finally, the key role of adaptive project management in overcoming these institutional barriers is investigated. The results indicate that successful implementation of these sustainable projects in Iran strictly requires cross-sectoral coordination and reforms.
Keywords


Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 21 July 2026

  • Receive Date 08 July 2026
  • Revise Date 10 July 2026
  • Accept Date 12 July 2026