Evaluation of biosolar roofs: Global insights and planned research in Slovakia

Biosolar roofs combine photovoltaic (PV) panels with green roofs, offering a multifunctional solution for sustainable buildings. They improve energy production, thermal insulation, stormwater management, and urban biodiversity. Despite their benefits, challenges such as shading, maintenance, and higher initial costs remain. This article compares biosolar roofs with traditional flat roofs with PV, based on global case studies. Findings show that biosolar systems can enhance energy efficiency and environmental performance but require climate-specific design and maintenance. The second part presents planned research in Žilina, Slovakia, on the NORDCITY parking house with an existing biosolar roof. We will install sensors to monitor surface and ambient temperatures around the PV panels. The goal is to assess the performance of biosolar roofs in the Central European climate and compare them to conventional systems, contributing to sustainable urban development.