Re-imagining an aging envelop: BIPV for a better future

Written by: Dennis Gillis

This project occurred at Saint Mary’s University, involving a 22 story 55 year old residence building with precast concrete cladding.  The building had some symptoms indicating problems with the cladding, notably water infiltration in numerous areas, heating challenges/temperature gradients (some areas very difficult to keep warm, others were too warm at times, etc.).

Comprehensive study of envelop revealed numerous areas where ties connecting the cladding to the building were deteriorating and posing significant risk.  The south side and areas on the east and west sides required significant work/replacement.  The north side was is good shape and only needed some recaulking in areas.

When assessing options for recladding the required areas, there was consideration given:

  • to level of effort for removal/installation of new cladding
  • Insulating value of new cladding
  • Ease of future repair for new cladding
  • Opportunities for capturing solar energy (heating domestic water, pre-heating ventilating air, generating electricity, etc.) on the south facing wall which required replacement 

Final analysis led to building integrated photo voltaic (BIPV)panels.  The incremental cost of adding PV element to a aluminum panel combined with the energy production and savings (through improved thermal performance, tax credits, etc.) led to a payback similar to a traditional rooftop solar installation.

Design, construction and suppliers teams required a highly collaborative work relationship, with all teams very much focused on delivering a successful project.  These teams also had to be very open to trying new initiatives.

We appreciate that many members of our community have been supportive of the project, with strong voices of support from faculty members, students, alumni, government and members of our surrounding community. The breadth and depth of feedback was quite overwhelming including:

  • University of Colorado Engineering students
  • Design firms and institutions from Minnesota, Massachusetts, New York, Pittsburg, California
  • Numerous Canadian Universities/Colleges
  • Private sector developers
  • SMU alumni
  • Current SMU students

In addition, in May 2024, SMU along with Dillon Consulting Ltd were recognized by Engineers Nova Scotia with the 2024 Lieutenant Governors Award for Engineering Excellence.

The award is given annually to a team, company, government department or consortium of professional engineers, who through original achievement or creative accomplishment in the application of engineering principles, demonstrates a high quality of professional engineering standards.

We are grateful for having the opportunity to make an impact on the environment, to ‘push the envelope’ and to show people that it is not only ‘ok’ to do things a little differently but we must do things differently when it comes to the environment.  We are hoping the recognition from this project will further encourage others to take similar steps to help in the area of climate change.


Dennis Gillis, PEng, MBA
Senior Director Facilities Management