Solar Energy
Modular PV Arrays
Mono-crystalline and Poly-crystalline photovoltaic modules are the most effective method of generating affordable zero carbon power for both residential and commercial applications.
With solar conversion efficiencies now 20% or more a number of manufacturers offer modules designed to withstand rigorous operating conditions with high power-to-area ratio's.
Modules are rated to deliver a peak output (kWp) and are arranged in arrays of two or more modules, hence a ten x 180Wp module array would have a peak output of 1.8kWp.
The direct current generated by PV arrays would need to be be transformed via an inverter to 240vac in order to be connected to the household system and the national grid.
Solar PV Tile systems
Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) slates / tiles are ideal for new build projects replacing conventional tiles and roof coverings with a high tech power generating array.
Less intrusive than modules they offer an effective method of combining with an efficient and cost-effective way of converting residential or commercial roofing into a solar power source.
Modern materials can withstand extended exposure to sun and natural elements without breaking down or distorting their shape ensuring a first class weather protection and power generation capability.
As with modules the DC generated electricity would need to be transformed to 240vac before being connected to the household system and the national grid.
Thin-Film BIPV roof
Amorphous Silicone Thin-Film solar PV can now be offered as an integrated zero carbon electricity generating roof system that can be used for both residential and commercial grid-connected systems.
The ability of amorphous silicone PV cells to generate power from lower light conditions, more typical of the UK climate, coupled with light weight, pre-insulated, easy to install roof covering has distinct benefits for modern building projects, where costs and time count.
Available in two fixed lengths, this system must be incorporated at the time of design and is not usually available for retrofit.
Modular BIPV systems
The latest in roof integrated solar energy generation solutions combines both modular and integrated solar PV technology for stunning results.
Large area, high-performance, polycrystalline solar PV modules can be installed either as surface or flat roof arrays, as a whole roof building integrated system, or construction of canopies or façade installations.
When used with the manufacturers aluminium frame system of the same aperture size, windows and solar thermal modules can be incorporated into the roof offering a high degree of design freedom to achieve low carbon solutions at affordable prices.
Aluminium frame system can be anodised or finished in RAL colours
Solar Tracking Arrays
Solar Collectors that track the sun across the sky generate at optimum performance, offering a far greater collection efficiency that fixed collector systems of the same area.
‘Hunt & Track’ digital control systems continually scans the sky to locate the area of the sky where the most energy is available.
An integral clutch allows the unit to ‘weather cock’ out of strong winds or stop if an obstruction is encountered.
Trackers can be used where roof mounting is not appropriate or desirable, or where a the installation is intended as a high profile feature.
Installation is fast and straight forward as equipment is prefabricated off site.
Frame Mounted Arrays
Where a pitched roof is not available, or is at too shallow / acute an angle for optimum solar collection, the array can be mounted on a custom fabricated frame.
On flat roofs this is standard practice but for shallow pitched roof (commercial units and warehouses for example) it can be beneficial to raise the collectors up to meet the optimum angle to 35° to horizontal.
Heavy duty anodized aluminium is used to custom fabricate a frame for the collector size of the project.
This is firmly fixed to the collector assembly and can be bolted or weighted down to the roof as appropriate.
