PV Photovoltaic Parking Lot: “Smart Solar Park Concept” for Parking, Getting In and Out – Strategy Part II

For parking lot canopies with solar panels, and generally for covered parking spaces and enclosed spaces such as underground garages, it is important to consider the entry and exit possibilities for vehicles in addition to the entry and exit possibilities for people.

Solar carports: sensitive entry zones – Image: Xpert.Digital

In the first part of our solar carport strategy, we described which areas of a solar roof substructure are suitable for people getting in and out of vehicles, and which are not. This can also be easily applied to underground parking garages and enclosed spaces.

More about it here:

• The solar carport strategy for open parking spaces

Especially in underground parking garages, we often feel like we're in a post-apocalyptic world, having to get in and out of our vehicles like zombies. With vehicles over 2 meters wide in 2.5-meter-wide parking spaces, it gets tight. Very tight. If drivers and passengers also have physical disabilities or are of a larger build, the situation quickly becomes a veritable parking trap. And we pay for this! It feels like every millimeter is exploited in the most brutal way possible for 50 cents per 15 minutes. Yes, this issue generally applies to all parking spaces with limited space, including those in the open air.

Another aspect to consider is agoraphobia and claustophobia when parking. This can be mitigated with large solar carport systems featuring semi-transparent solar panels. More information on this can be found below under 'Agoraphobia and Claustophobia'.

To counteract urban densification—the increasing development and use of limited space—sustainable urban planning is essential. Effective urban planning can help manage densification while simultaneously ensuring a high quality of life. This includes creating green spaces, parks, and public squares that offer residents recreational opportunities. A well-thought-out mix of residential, commercial, and leisure areas can create a balanced urban environment. However, this also requires a sufficient number of affordable parking options. How people park is also a key factor in the overall well-being of residents within smart city concepts.

It is crucial to find solutions that address these challenges in underground parking garages and other covered parking areas. Improved parking layout and markings, larger parking spaces for wider vehicles, barrier-free access, and safer entry and exit areas can all contribute to making the use of covered parking more pleasant and comfortable for everyone. It is essential that architects, urban planners, and parking operators consider these factors when designing and using parking infrastructure to improve safety, accessibility, and usability. Comprehensive and holistic planning is key to avoiding parking pitfalls and ensuring a pleasant parking experience for all. Unfortunately, this is largely ignored in current smart city concepts and considerations.

Solar carports – Parking and maneuvering situations to consider – Image: Xpert.Digital

Especially with parking space widths of 2.50 meters, the red-marked area is essential for entry and exit situations, ensuring that no support structures for the solar roof are installed here.

The same applies to the yellow zone, where possible solar roof substructures make parking unnecessarily difficult.

The so-called 4+2 parking systems ideally accommodate both scenarios. The pillars are even further offset inwards and therefore lower than adjacent vehicles. This makes parking generally easy or difficult, depending on one's perspective and how one parks in relation to adjacent vehicles.

➡️ However, it should be noted that a 4-post parking space no worse or more complicated to park and unpark than any other solar carport substructure variant.

Furthermore, the 4+2 solar carport systems, such as our preferred City solar carport module, are significantly cheaper than other systems due to their point foundations. These other systems require a corresponding counter-foundation on the ground, which necessitates heavy construction machinery, generates a lot of dirt, and requires the parking area to be closed for extended periods.

Sufficient parking space width is important for parking and unparking a vehicle safely and smoothly. Here are some reasons why this is important:

Security

Sufficient parking space width allows the driver to maneuver the vehicle safely without touching other vehicles or obstacles. Parking too narrowly due to insufficient width can lead to collisions or damage to vehicles.

visibility

With sufficient space in the parking lot, the driver has a better view of their surroundings, including other vehicles, pedestrians, and obstacles. This makes it easier for the driver to recognize potential hazards and react safely.

comfort

A wider parking space allows the driver to get in and out more easily without having to perform tight maneuvers. This increases comfort and reduces the risk of errors or inconveniences while parking.

Protection against damage

Having sufficient space in the parking lot reduces the likelihood of collisions with other vehicles or fixed objects such as pillars or walls. This minimizes the risk of damage to your own vehicle and the surrounding structures.

Accessibility

Sufficient parking space width also makes it easier for people with reduced mobility to get in and out of the vehicle. This is particularly important for drivers or passengers who rely on wheelchairs, walking aids, or other assistive devices.

➡️ Sufficient parking space width is crucial for safe and convenient parking while minimizing the risk of accidents or damage. It is essential that parking spaces are designed and maintained appropriately to meet these requirements.

The parking situation remains the same with a 4-column solar carport substructure as with open parking spaces – Image: Xpert.Digital

Security

Besides comfortable entry and exit, the ability to park safely also contributes to the safety of vehicle occupants. When parking is straightforward, there is less risk of injuries or falls. Easy entry and exit are particularly essential for older people or those with limited mobility to prevent falls or accidents.

Efficiency

Quick and smooth entry and exit, as well as maneuvering in and out of the vehicle, contributes to efficiency, especially in situations where time is of the essence. This can be important, for example, at business appointments, shopping trips, or in parking garages where speed is essential.

Accessibility

Barrier-free entry and exit ensure accessibility for all people, regardless of their age or physical abilities. This is an important aspect of inclusion and enables everyone to participate fully in social life.

Comfortable use of the vehicle

Easy entry and exit allow vehicle occupants to use the vehicle comfortably and without stress. This promotes driver and passenger satisfaction and contributes to a positive driving experience.

comfort

Easy and convenient entry and exit from the vehicle ensures a pleasant parking experience. It allows vehicle occupants to get in and out of the vehicle without difficulty or inconvenience. This is especially important for longer journeys or frequent entry and exit.

The “offset T-beam” is a very good alternative to the 4-column substructure system in terms of its construction, but is more complex and expensive compared to point foundations due to the necessary counter-ground foundation.

More about it here:

• Consulting on solar carport & foundation planning: Cost factor of the ground foundation for solar carports

Agoraphobia and claustrophobia are two different anxiety disorders that relate to different situations.

Agoraphobia

Agoraphobia refers to the fear of situations or places where escape or getting help may be difficult or frightening. People with agoraphobia often fear open or public spaces, such as crowds, shopping malls, public transportation, or large squares. The fear can be so intense that it leads to avoidance behavior, causing those affected to potentially stay indoors or only want to go out in the company of trusted individuals.

claustrophobia

Claustrophobia, on the other hand, refers to the fear of confined or enclosed spaces. People with claustrophobia can develop intense anxiety in situations such as elevators, narrow rooms, tunnels, or crowds where they might feel trapped. The anxiety can range from mild discomfort to panic attacks. People with claustrophobia often have a strong desire to avoid such situations or to escape immediately if they arise.

Although both agoraphobia and claustrophobia involve fear of specific situations, they differ in the nature of the situation that triggers the anxiety. Agoraphobia refers to the fear of open or public spaces, while claustrophobia describes the fear of confined or enclosed spaces. It is possible for a person to suffer from both agoraphobia and claustrophobia, or for one anxiety disorder to be more severe than the other. Treatment for agoraphobia and claustrophobia can include similar therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or exposure therapy, which aim to manage the anxiety and enable normal functioning in specific situations.

How does agoraphobia affect people in parking lots?

Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder often associated with situations where escape or getting help can be difficult or frightening. Parking lots can pose a challenge for people with agoraphobia, as they are often large, open spaces with no immediate means of escape. Here are some potential effects agoraphobia can have on parking lots:

Avoiding parking spaces

People with agoraphobia may tend to avoid parking lots, especially large or crowded ones. The fear of exposure in open spaces without clear escape routes can lead to avoidance behavior.

Difficulties finding a parking space

Finding a parking space can be stressful for people with agoraphobia. The worry of finding a parking spot in a crowded environment and then potentially ending up far from their destination can exacerbate their anxiety.

The need for nearby parking spaces

People with agoraphobia often prefer parking lots close to their destination to minimize time spent in open spaces. They may look for parking spaces closer to the entrance or in areas with more privacy to feel safer.

Escort or alternative means of transport

Some people with agoraphobia may prefer to be accompanied by others when using parking lots. The presence of a familiar person can give them a sense of security. Alternatively, they may use alternative modes of transport such as carpooling, taxis, or public transport to avoid parking situations.

How does claustrophobia affect people in parking lots?

Claustrophobia refers to the fear of confined or enclosed spaces. Since parking lots are typically open spaces, the direct impact of claustrophobia on parking lots is rather limited. However, people with claustrophobia may find certain aspects of parking lots unpleasant or frightening, especially when they are in narrow, enclosed parking garage structures. Here are some possible effects:

Parking garages

Some people with claustrophobia may experience anxiety or discomfort in parking garages. The narrow, enclosed spaces often found in parking garages could exacerbate their fear. This might lead them to avoid parking garages altogether or seek alternative parking options to feel more comfortable in more open environments.

Tight parking spaces

Tightly parked vehicles or narrow parking spaces can trigger stress or discomfort in people with claustrophobia. The fear of driving into a tight parking space or maneuvering between closely parked vehicles can lead to discomfort and may also cause them to seek out parking spaces that offer more room.

Overcrowded parking lots

Crowded parking lots can cause discomfort for people with claustrophobia. The thought of being trapped in a crowd of parked vehicles or having difficulty getting out of a tight parking space can intensify their anxiety. In some cases, people with claustrophobia may avoid crowded parking lots altogether or seek alternative parking options in less busy areas.

How widespread is agoraphobia?

Agoraphobia is a relatively common anxiety disorder. It is estimated that approximately 1.7% to 2% of the world's population suffers from agoraphobia. It is important to note that these figures are estimates and the actual prevalence may vary depending on the study and population group.

Agoraphobia is more common in women than in men. The exact causes of agoraphobia are not fully understood, but it is believed that a combination of genetic, neurochemical, and environmental factors plays a role. People with agoraphobia often have a history of panic disorder or other anxiety disorders.

How widespread is claustrophobia?

Claustrophobia is a relatively common anxiety disorder. However, there is no consistent data on the exact prevalence or distribution of claustrophobia, as this may depend on various factors, such as the population in which the study is conducted and the diagnostic criteria used.

It is estimated that between 2% and 5% of the population suffers from claustrophobia. It is important to note that these estimates can vary and may not capture all individuals who suffer from claustrophobia, as some may not seek professional diagnosis or treatment.

Claustrophobia occurs in people of different ages and genders. It can develop in childhood, adolescence, or adulthood and affects women and men equally.

The exact causes of claustrophobia are not fully understood, but it is believed that a combination of genetic, neurochemical, and environmental factors plays a role. People with claustrophobia often have a personal or family history of anxiety disorders or traumatic experiences.

The city solar carport - with increased collision and vandalism protection - Image: Xpert.Digital

The advantages at a glance

• Support & Made in Germany
• Modular & scalable (for 2, 100, 1,000 and more parking spaces)
• Really waterproof
• Integrated water drain / invisible rain gutter
• Vandalism protection, optionally with integrated impact protection
• Variable with all common solar modules
• City design available in aluminum and 3 different colors
• Depending on the amount of self-consumption (degree of self-sufficiency), amortization is possible within 6 years
• Long service life (aluminum substructure)
• 30-year (!) performance guarantee on bifacial and partially transparent double-glass solar modules (25-year product guarantee)
• Reducing urban heat islands
• Building-integrated photovoltaics
• Ideal for transparent and translucent double-glass solar modules with overhead mounting approval!

Everything from a single source, specially designed for solar solutions for large parking areas. You refinance or counterfinance into the future with your own electricity generation.

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Advice and planning including a non-binding cost estimate. We bring you together with strong photovoltaic partners.

Advice and solutions can be found here 👈🏻

We are positioned across regions in German-speaking countries. We have reliable partners who advise you and implement your wishes.

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Various services can be offered for solar carports and solar canopies over open parking areas. Here are some common services:

Advice and planning

Service providers can support companies in the planning and design of solar carports and solar canopies. This includes comprehensive advice on design options, site selection, energy requirements, cost-benefit analyses, and permitting procedures.

Project development

Service providers can take over the entire project development process, including the creation of feasibility studies, the procurement of financing options, and coordination with authorities and other stakeholders.

Installation and construction

Professional teams can handle the installation of the solar panels and carport structures. This includes mounting the solar panels, wiring, connecting to the power grid, and erecting the roof structure.

Maintenance and servicing

Service providers can offer regular maintenance and repair services to ensure the solar system functions optimally. This includes inspections, cleaning of the solar panels, checking of the electrical components, and replacement of defective parts.

Monitoring and operations management

By installing monitoring systems, service providers can monitor the operation of the solar power plant, track energy production, and identify potential problems early on. They can also optimize plant operation and assist with managing electricity generation data and energy billing.

Service and support

Service providers can offer customer support and technical service to answer questions, solve problems, and provide information on the use and maintenance of solar carports.

Important to note

It is important to note that not all service providers offer all of these services. The range of services offered can vary from company to company.

Guidelines – Concepts – Strategies – Things to Know

Part I – The parking space requirement, the solar obligation, parking space types and the solar carport strategy for open parking spaces

➡️ Focus on entry and exit zones

Part II – Photovoltaic Parking Lot: “Smart Solar Park Concept” for Parking, Getting In and Out

➡️ Focus on parking and maneuvering situations

Part III - Guide and tips for solar carports from small to large systems – for municipalities, industry, installers and private households

➡️ Focus: Ideal materials for substructures