BIPV
October 22, 2025
Retrofitting is no longer a niche activity—it’s central to global climate goals as institutions face growing carbon reduction mandates and energy efficiency goals.
Mitrex systems are perfectly suited for new builds and retrofits alike, and make retrofitting an achievable process but providing a fresh cladding material and allowing building to achieve green incentives. Instead of layering on bulky racking or compromising design, Mitrex BIPV products are built into the cladding itself—enabling structural compatibility, visual continuity, and simplified approvals.
Mitrex’s adaptability starts at the system level. Our panel families are supported by a range of installation options including rainscreen and prefabricated assemblies that reduce the friction often associated with retrofits:
These systems streamline installation, minimize disruption to occupants, and support energy upgrades without invasive structural rework.
The Loyola Residence at St. Mary’s University is a textbook example of solar adaptation. The 50+ year-old building needed a cladding replacement. Mitrex BIPV replaced the aging facade while delivering a 90 kW system that generates 73,300 kWh annually.
Mitrex worked closely with DSRA Architects to match a custom sea foam green finish while preserving the visibility of solar cells. Rigorous design testing was done to ensure both energy performance and architectural cohesion were met.
Why it matters: The project shows how Mitrex panels can be engineered to meet both structural and aesthetic requirements in a tight retrofit scenario all without requiring additional land, roof reinforcement, or compromise on visual goals.
Read about it Here.
At 1154 Wilson Avenue, Mitrex replaced aging balcony railings with SolaRail™—an integrated photovoltaic railing system. This transformation required no structural changes, and tenants remained in the building throughout construction.
The resulting 142 kW solar railing system now generates over 83,000 kWh annually, providing an ongoing reduction in operating costs. This project demonstrated that even non-facade components, like guardrails, can become energy-generating assets through thoughtful solar design
Why it matters: By adapting the railing and not the roof or walls—Mitrex enabled clean energy production while solving a functional upgrade need. The project illustrates how BIPV can integrate at the detail level of retrofits, not just large-format façades.
Read about it Here.
One of the biggest challenges in retrofits is added weight. Older buildings often can’t support traditional solar systems without costly reinforcement. That’s why Mitrex engineered its panels to be lightweight.
For example, eFacade LITE panels weigh just 5.3 to 7.2 kg/m² depending on colour and energy output
This low mass per square metre allows for widespread application on buildings without triggering structural redesigns or new permitting complications.
As the demand for energy retrofits grows, so does the need for flexible solar solutions that don’t require a blank slate. Mitrex panels adapt to real-world structures—aged, occupied, space-limited, or architecturally distinct—delivering energy savings and design cohesion in one engineered system.
Whether you're modernizing a campus residence or upgrading a residential tower, Mitrex BIPV helps you do it without compromise.
Explore Further
News & Articles
This blog explores how eFacade LITE’s lightweight system is ideal for decarbonization and retrofitting/renovating aging facades - reducing operational costs, meeting ESG goals, all while providing a visually appealing facade.
This blog explores how eFacade LITE’s lightweight system is ideal for decarbonization and retrofitting/renovating aging facades - reducing operational costs, meeting ESG goals, all while providing a visually appealing facade.
This article explores how Mitrex solar facade systems go beyond typical photovoltaic performance by offering a true lifetime warranty—delivering sustainable energy, reliability, and architectural value from installation onward.
This article explores how Mitrex solar facade systems go beyond typical photovoltaic performance by offering a true lifetime warranty—delivering sustainable energy, reliability, and architectural value from installation onward.
This article showcases five standout Mitrex projects across institutional, residential, and international sectors. Each demonstrates how solar facade systems can deliver long-term energy savings, elevate design, and meet the evolving demands of sustainable construction.
This article showcases five standout Mitrex projects across institutional, residential, and international sectors. Each demonstrates how solar facade systems can deliver long-term energy savings, elevate design, and meet the evolving demands of sustainable construction.
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