News Article
Dual Glass For BIPV
Tenesol launches bespoke dual-glass BIPV module
Tenesol, the global solar power provider owned by TOTAL and EDF, has launched a new custom-made dual-glass BIPV (building integrated photovoltaic) module in Europe. The new module gives architects freedom to create tailor-made PV modules to suit individual projects. It can match any size, colour, shape, style or virtually any other design requirement. The module is one of the most advanced crystalline modules on the market and is designed to help facility managers meet the latest European building regulations.
"Our new dual-glass modules remove the usual limitations of solar installations and allow architects to harness their creativity and design truly unique BIPV systems," says Benoit Rolland, Managing Director of Tenesol. "Solar energy is fast becoming the renewable energy of choice for building owners. These modules not only meet national and EU regulations for efficient building design but are an aesthetically pleasing way of generating energy and enhancing a building's green image."
The new TE Lumex Design modules are the product of an industrial joint venture and will be produced in France. Integrated into façades, glass-roofs and sunshades, the new modules feature both solar thermal and solar electric properties. They will be available in Europe in early 2011.
The dual-glass market is not a new one for Tenesol. The company has offered standardised dual-glass modules as part of its range for years. But this bespoke service is an entirely new arena for the company.
Tenesol will work directly with architects to produce a bespoke dual-glass system that matches their design requirement. Clients can specify the exact size of each module (up to a maximum of 4m x 2m) and the thickness of glass. In terms of PV cells, clients can choose Poly or Mono (multiple or a single crystal lactic structure), the number of cells and the layout on the module.
The dual-glass modules are designed to be highly visible and form a major aspect of a building's architecture. In light of this, all junction boxes are positioned at the edge of an installation so they cannot be seen and will not spoil the appearance of the PV system.
The glass on the front of the module is extra clear and Heat Soak Tempered (HST) to ensure the most effective PV production. The glass on the back offers a range of possibilities: it can be coloured, silk-printed, clear, extra clear and of varying thickness.
