Architecturally Integrated Photovoltaic Panels: Residential Design Methods and Consumer Preferences Jon Gardzelewski 1 , Anthony Denzer 2 , Benjamin Gilbert 3 University of Wyoming, Dept. of Civil and Architectural Engineering, 1000 E. University Ave., Laramie, WY 82071-2000; 1 Associate Lecturer; 2 Associate Professor, 3 Assistant Professor ABSTRACT Since the commercialization of photovoltaic (PV) panels, Architect, Engineers, and builders have sought creative methods for aesthetically integrating PVs into buildings through either PV embedded materials or architectural composition strategies. PV integrated materials represent one approach that will hopefully yield more breakthroughs in the coming years, but is currently seen as novel and costly, particularly in the home building industry. Standard PV panels are better understood and preferred, yet they introduce aesthetic, construction, and regulatory challenges. Neighborhood covenants often prohibit solar for aesthetic reasons, however we are finding evidence that solar panels which are “architecturally integrated” into residential design can be desirable while adding value. This paper examines a number of examples of practical aesthetic solutions while presenting research findings from a survey of prospective home buyers which evaluates aesthetic preferences with solar and Zero Energy homes. In the survey conducted, four options have been shown including two solar option, one with typical solar and another with architecturally integrated solar. Initial data has shown a willingness in consumers to pay on average $6,200 to $7,300 extra for design integrated solar relative to standard rooftop solar, which indicates strong evidence of an aesthetic preference. In addition to presenting research findings, this paper explores residential solutions from multiple sources in search of a variety of PV integration solutions intended for future research and consideration. INTRODUCTION Building codes have become more rigorous in terms of energy efficiency requirements. While increased efficiency approaches a point of diminishing returns, the cost of on-site energy production continues to drop. This drop, particularly in the wholesale cost of solar photovoltaics (PVs), provides the opportunity to create affordable buildings that can produce as much or more energy as they use. Zero Energy houses are poised to become a significant sector of the residential construction market (Sankaran et al. 2015). Some examples seek maximum energy efficiency before incorporating PV energy production. One notable example, the National Institute of Standards Testing (NIST) Net Zero Energy Residential Test Facility, or NZERTF, offers a clear example of an excessive amount of money spent in reducing energy use compared to the cost of energy production through the installation of PV panels (Schneider et al 2016). We have concluded that Zero Energy buildings are more cost effective when preference is given to installing more solar panels, rather than to seeking the highest levels of energy efficiency or reduction. The insulation levels established by the 2012