Project 'Integrated PV roof'
This project is developing a lightweight integrated PV roof component for roofs where traditional solar panels are not suitable. The self-supporting part with full-surface solar cells maximizes electricity output and enables one-step installation.
Background
In the Netherlands, 30 to 40% of existing roofs of commercial buildings are not suitable for installing solar panels. The current panels are too heavy for these roofs, including agricultural barns and sheds where old asbestos roofs totaling 70 km2 must be replaced in the coming years. Currently, there is no solution on the market to provide these roofs with lightweight solar panels. Additionally, the current solar panels made of glass/aluminum are not circular; when they reach the waste phase after 25 years of use, they are not recyclable.
Brief Description of Activities
The activities include developing lightweight integrated PV roof components with associated electrical installation, connection systems, and accessories. Subsequently, 4,000 m2 will be installed on a trial roof and tested for all technical, operational, and economic aspects.
On a regular basis, updates on the progress of the project will be posted on this page.
Project Objective
In this project, Solarge and Giant Leap Composites aim to develop a large-scale, lightweight integrated PV roof component. Solarge specializes in lightweight, circular solar panels, while Giant Leap Composites specializes in plastic sheet materials. The integrated PV roof component is self-supporting, with solar cells covering the entire surface for maximum electricity generation.
Outcome
The intended outcome of this project is a lightweight integrated PV roof component that is fully self-supporting, including associated production techniques and machinery to waterproof the PV roof component and connect the individual parts. The new, lightweight, integrated PV roof component saves both time and money, as it can be installed in one step instead of two (first constructing a roof structure, then installing solar panels).
This significantly expands the possibilities for decentralized production of sustainable electricity in places where it is currently impossible, strengthening the economy of South Netherlands with new knowledge and technology in the field of next-generation solar roof panels. The combined business cases of the consortium partners will result in revenue from new products and product-market combinations in South Netherlands.
This project has been made possible with a contribution from the European Regional Development Fund, and the province of Limburg as part of the OPZuid program.