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Types of Solar Photovoltaic Systems

Solar Panels Generates Electricity From Daylight

On-Roof Solar Panels

On-Roof Solar pv Panels

Roof mounted solar pv panels are fitted to pitched (sloping) roofs, above the existing roof covering using a metal substructure.

The roof covering is retained and continues to perform its water-proofing function.

For retro-fitting solar panels onto existing roofs, roof-mounted is usually the most cost effective option.

Special toughened glass which is hail resistance and gives longevity to the panels.  Solar pv panels are designed to have a 30 year plus life span.

The roof mounted solar pv panels usually have better ventilation which helps in the efficiency of electricity generation.

The solar pv panels are low maintenance and may need a general maintenance once a year.

In-Roof Solar Panels

In-Roof Solar pv Panels

In-roof mounted solar systems, the panels lie in the plane of, and replace the conventional roof covering. Entire roof surfaces or part of the roof can be covered with the solar pv panels.

In-roof integrated mounting systems, typically on new build, are fixed directly to the structure flush with the roof tiles.

The solar photovoltaic system takes on a dual function; power generation and weather proofing.

The main advantage of this system it is more aesthetically pleasing.

However there is more work involved in the installation of such systems and therefore more costly.

The energy generation efficiency is the same as the on-roof mounted system.

Solar Tiles

Solar tiles are ideal for complete re-roofs and new builds. The solar tiles are larger than conventional roof tiles so that one solar tile can replace several roof tiles and the amount of wiring is reduced.

The tiles are attached directly onto the roof battens and the relatively large weight of the solar tiles ensures sufficient security in a storm.

The solar tiles typically produce a high output of less than 8 square meters per kWp.

The manufacturer warranty is 20 years on the solar tiles.

A solar tiled roof looks aesthetically pleasing, although the tiles do cost more than solar panels and installation is more time consuming.

As the solar tiles are more discreet and integrated into the roof, local authority planners have often approved such renewable energy systems over other options which have been considered unsuitable.

Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV)

Photovoltaics (PV) converts light into electricity directly, without emissions and when it is needed. PV systems can be used ‘decentralized’ which means it can be deployed in close proximity to the user avoiding energy losses by long transportation.

PV that is integrated into the fabric of the building is known as Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV), they can be used on new and existing buildings. Their use is very varied and architects can integrate into their designs successfully.

As the current supply of fossil fuels are depleting rapidly, there is a growing concern that as consumers we need to be more responsible in our energy usage and replace the use of fossil fuels with renewable sources such as solar power.

In the construction of our buildings we need build in sustainability, our buildings need to be converted from energy users to energy producers.

The ways in which this can be achieved are:

  1. Conserve as much energy as possible
  2. Increase energy efficiency
  3. Use active solar systems such as solar photovoltaics and solar thermal

BIPV systems are able to contribute significantly to meet the goal of true sustainable building design.

Electricity will be the only power source needed in our future sustainable buildings. A building integrated PV system is therefore a future orientated investment.

New technological developments allow radical changes to the design of facades and roofs.

PV building products should not only produce electricity, but also be able to fulfil other functions.

Today solar PV can be used in the building envelope to provide:

Solar pv systems can also be used as a small stand-alone power units, such as the fan for a ventilation system.

PV also acts as a public demonstration of your company’s green credentials, and that you are an ecological and forward thinking organisation.

Applications of PV

PV can be applied to:

Solar for Flat Roof Structures

Solar for Flat Roof Structures

Flat roofs have the advantage of good accessibility, easy installation and provides a free choice for the orientation of the PV system. The TF Membrane Professional PV system has been designed for the flat roof sector. The system incorporates unique Thin-Film Amorphous Silicon laminates from Uni-Solar a roofing membrane with built-in power generation. The flexibility of the solar membrane allows architects to design aesthetically pleasing integrated BIPV.

The system can be retrofitted to existing buildings where weight and wind loads are critical to the roof sub-structure. 

Industrial Roof Solar Plate

Industrial Roof Solar Plate

Industrial and metal roofs can also benefit from solar power. The TF Plate Professional are solar pv panels which makes use of the exiting substructure.

The TF Plate Professional are designed to be laid flat onto low pitched roofs, ideal for traditional metal roof buildings.

Jacob Eco Energy is the first solar panel installation company in Manchester to be MCS approved (Microgeneration Certification Scheme), and we can offer guidance and professional advice around all renewable energy sources. Find out more about Solar panels electricity, contact us directly for free advice now