INTERLOCKING EDGES HAVING ELECTRICAL CONNECTORS FOR BUILDING INTEGRABLE PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES

Provided are novel building integrable photovoltaic (BIP) modules that are mechanically and electrically interconnectable. According to various embodiments, the modules include channels and protrusion members. A channel of one module snugly fits over a protrusion member of an adjacent module to provide a moisture seal and, in certain embodiments, to collect water in between two modules and direct it downward. In certain embodiments, a channel is configured to interlock with a protrusion member in one or more directions. The channel is positioned along one edge of the module, while the protrusion member is positioned along the opposite edge, so that BIP modules can form a continuous interconnected row. The channel and protrusion member include electrical connectors having conductive elements. Inserting a protrusion member into a channel and, in certain embodiments, sliding one with respect to another also electrically interconnects the conductive elements.