Towards integrated design strategies for implementing BIPV systems into urban renewal processes : preliminary case study in Neuchâtel (Switzerland)

European energy directives define highly‐demanding performance standards, from zero‐energy buildings to positive‐energy buildings. In Switzerland, one of the specific objectives of the new “Energy strategy 2050” is to install PV systems on existing building surfaces in order to cover 1/3 of the annual Swiss demand for electricity. In view of the considerable importance of urban renewal processes, building‐integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems therefore provide a crucial response to the challenges of the energy turnaround. However, in spite of technologic progress and economic evolution, diverse types of obstacles limit a large‐scale advanced PV integration into urban renewal processes. In this context, urban and architectural design towards increased integration – and therefore increased acceptance – provides an essential solution to overcome these barriers. It represents a key element towards establishing a systematic link between BIPV and the necessary renewal of the considerable existing building stock. Towards this aim, the present paper proposes a first approach to define a holistic multi‐criteria assessment methodology for BIPV‐adapted solutions in urban renewal design processes in the Swiss context. This document presents the first steps towards the validation of the proposed methodology through a preliminary case study in Neuchâtel (Switzerland).