Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) are used to replace conventional building materials in parts of the building envelope in roof, skylights or facades. They are increasingly being incorporated into the construction of new buildings for a principal or auxiliary source of electrical power. However existing building can be retrofitted with similar technology.
Solarcrown Commercial has successfully started the first BIPV (Building Integrated Photovoltaics) installations for David Wilson Homes in the North West Region, which is part of the Barratt Group. The site in Runcorn, which consists of 106 properties, will consist of BIPV modules on every dwelling to
satisfy code and planning requirements.
Solarcrown Commercial have designed and developed this product specifically for the new build sector where aesthetics are a key factor in the deployment of solar PV panels. Along with their sleek design and aesthetically appealing visuals, Solarcrown Commercial’s BIPV modules are easy to install and are integrated into the roof structure with any roof tile.
Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) Design
A BIPV system from Solarcrown Commercial presents all the ancillary offerings of a conventional system. All of our systems possess the ability for multiple inverter variations and configuration splits of a traditional system. The overall aesthetic of our BIPV systems are evident in the clean lines our systems present. With the ability to run parallel with existing tiles of the property our BIPV systems are a visually pleasing alternative. The ability to offer a flush finish and extremely efficient installation of the BIPV system greatly reduces our operation man hours compared to a frame mounted installations.
As Solarcrown Commercial manufactures the BIPV modules, the offering exceeds that of a standard PV installer. Solarcrown handle the full process from production and initial design and layout right through to the installation and commissioning of the system and after sales service for the client’s end customer.
Advantages
Intergrated Photovoltaics reduce the initial cost and the amount of spend on building materials and labour that would be used to construct the parts of the building that the BIPV module replaces compared to non-integrated systems.
“Offering a full turnkey package to our clients from the early stages of design through to handover gives our clients a one stop shop with one contact for all aspects of the scheme. It also helps to reduce costs as we are a National Installer and can service sites all over the UK. This limits the use for sub-contractors and extra margins being added to the costs” states Solarcrown Business and Product Development Manager, Stephen Scully.
“Another appealing attribute is that the panels are manufactured within the UK so lead times are shorter than that of overseas production facilities. Solarcrown Commercial supports British Manufacturing and is keen to support and integrate this into our Business Model wherever possible.”
