Because of the rising expectations of society with regard to the conse
rvation and efficient utilization of energy, the use of renewable form
s of energy and the protection of the natural environment in particula
r, the building envelope has to fulfil a set of new specifications. On
e of them is the incorporation of photovoltaic (PV) modules in the str
ucture of a building. In addition to the aim of converting solar energ
y into electric power, these PV modules can be used for several other
purposes on a building, such as a shading system, wall cladding or roo
fing material. But while PV technology contines to be refined the adva
ncements in the integration of its equipment in building construction
with regard to attaining an aesthetic whole, as well as to draw on the
full benefits offered by solar energy, have hardly kept pace. This pa
per analyses and defines the reasons for this lack of design quality a
nd presents, from an architectural point of view, a perspective of cha
nges in the design and building process and in the collaboration on th
e building site. These changes are necessary for being able to meet th
e goal of creating aesthetically, architecturally and technically plea
sing integration of photovoltaics in the built environment.