Smart & Green City: Bifacial & transparent glass-glass/double-glazed solar modules ideal for agri-photovoltaics, ground-mounted systems, solar carports and solar fences

With the increasing share of electricity from renewable energy sources, it is becoming clear that artificial intelligence (AI) will need to control energy system processes on a large scale in the future. While centralized power generation grids have dominated until now, the trend is shifting towards decentralized generation facilities. This is the case with generation from renewable sources such as photovoltaic systems, solar thermal power plants, wind turbines, and biogas plants. This leads to a significantly more complex structure, primarily in the areas of load control, voltage regulation in the distribution network, and maintaining grid stability. Unlike medium-sized to large power plants, smaller, decentralized generation facilities also feed directly into lower voltage levels such as the low-voltage or medium-voltage grid.

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An intelligent power grid integrates all stakeholders into a comprehensive system through the interplay of generation, storage, grid management, and consumption. Power plants (including storage facilities) are already controlled today to ensure that the amount of electrical energy produced always matches the amount consumed.

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Green City and agri-photovoltaics are not solely about the maximum output of the renewable energy sources used. Here, we are primarily talking about solar modules, the most flexible and widespread energy carriers of renewable energies.

Therefore, no increased performance at the expense of others and the environment, but rather economical and environmentally sound adaptation, such as utilizing all possible components according to the principle that more is more.

Glass-glass modules represent a technology that, in addition to its high energy efficiency, is characterized by its extreme durability and attractive appearance, making them interesting for both private users and in architectural applications such as solar fences, solar carports, and agrivoltaics. Glass-glass modules are glazed on both their front and back sides. The additional glass layer provides better protection and a longer lifespan for the panels.

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While glass-glass modules are more expensive to manufacture than conventional solar modules, the higher production costs are offset by their significantly longer lifespan. Due to their high resistance to weather conditions such as wind and moisture, glass-glass modules achieve a lifespan of 50 years or more. Unlike the plastic films typically used, the glass structure does not become porous, which, in addition to its longer lifespan, offers better protection against soiling.

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Another advantage is their higher efficiency. The modules deliver a comparatively high level of efficiency even in poor lighting conditions. In addition, the glass-glass modules offer greater fire resistance and remarkable stability. Furthermore, the system boasts other practical benefits: Since the design requires no frame or visually disruptive backsheet, the modules are ideal for installation in residential areas, for example, as sun and privacy protection on a patio. They can also contribute to the long-term, efficient generation of electricity in carports or large parking lots (such as those at supermarkets).

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Finding the right solar carport system: The problems with solar carports – Image: Jenson|Shutterstock.com

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• Finding the right solar carport system: The problems with solar carports

The advantages at a glance:

• Quick and easy assembly
• Customizable design (color, materials, surface, size, etc.)
• Installation of charging stations and inverters is possible at any time
• Scalable & modular: Available as a single, double or infinitely scalable row carport
• Suitable for use even in the standard version for very high wind and snow loads
• …and much more

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Solar fence as a noise barrier and privacy screen with solar power option – Image: Xpert.Digital & Rikard Stadler

In the course of the energy transition with Green City initiatives and the ever-decreasing prices in the field of solar modules, further areas of application for solar energy generation are becoming interesting.

• Furthermore, a fence also offers protection against industrial espionage and industrial theft
• A fence also offers solar power potential for autonomous power supply

More information here:

• Wall/fence systems: Solar fence and solar wall for company premises and fenced-in business areas – noise barrier and privacy screen with solar power option

Solar facade – Solar facade solution for PV modules and mounting systems – Image: Xpert.Digital – marco mayer|Shutterstock.com

Compared to traditional roof-mounted solar panels, a vertical orientation prevents any snow accumulation. It was also found that solar gain is increased in winter because the solar modules are oriented more towards the lower angle of the sun in winter. Furthermore, it was observed that reflective snow on the ground increases solar energy by up to 50%.

Proper planning and selection of the appropriate solar mounting system are also crucial. Just as solar panels and mounting systems exist in various designs, there are also different types of facades, which differ not only in building type (e.g., house, warehouse) and construction method (e.g., wooden house, brick building, concrete building, lightweight steel hall), but also in their construction technique.

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• Solar facade – Solar wall facade solution for PV modules and mounting systems

Everything from a single source, specifically designed for solar solutions for large parking areas. Refinance or offset your future costs with your own electricity generation.

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