Enormous potential for solar carports for the solar or photovoltaic roofing of sealed surfaces

Carports and prefabricated garages offer enormous potential for generating electricity and utilizing sealed surfaces for dual purposes. The 160,000 wooden carports in Germany alone in 2019, and the projected 14,180 carports and prefabricated garages in Austria for 2023, represent considerable and unfortunately untapped potential for photovoltaics.

Carports and prefabricated garages offer enormous potential for generating electricity and making dual use of sealed surfaces. Despite the high number of carports and prefabricated garages sold in Germany and Austria, the potential for photovoltaics remains largely untapped. In 2019 alone, 160,000 wooden carports were sold in Germany, and a projected number of 14,180 carports and prefabricated garages is expected for Austria in 2023. Installing solar panels on these structures can not only supply the buildings themselves with electricity, but also feed surplus energy into the public grid. This can lead to cost savings, reduce the carbon footprint, and promote the expansion of renewable energies.

Looking at the figures for installed carports and prefabricated garages reveals enormous potential for adding photovoltaic systems. The comparatively low additional costs for solar equipment can help the investment in carports and prefabricated garages pay for itself, something that wasn't previously the case or planned for. Many people are still unaware of this fact, which needs to be emphasized repeatedly. A solar system on the roof of a carport or prefabricated garage not only saves money but also contributes to environmental protection. Xpert.Solar already offers corresponding solutions in its planning tools (see solar carport planner) that are tailored to the individual needs and requirements of customers. For example, the size of the system can be adapted to the size of the garage or carport. Various energy storage options are also now available to ensure maximum use of the energy produced.

Sales of prefabricated garages and carports in Austria until 2021 and forecast until 2023 – Image: Xpert.Digital

A downward trend in the prefabricated garage market was expected for 2022. According to current forecasts, the number of prefabricated garages sold is expected to decrease by 2.3 percent compared to the previous year, to a total of 2,500 units. The reasons for this decline are manifold and include, among other things, the general economic situation, higher material and transport costs, and a changing demand structure.

Interestingly, sales of single garages have increased, while sales of double and row garages have declined. This could indicate that more and more people are opting for individual garage solutions tailored to their specific needs.

To remain competitive in the market, garage manufacturers must respond to these changes and adapt their products and services to customer needs. Aspects such as sustainability and energy efficiency should also be considered to meet the increasing demands of environmentally conscious construction.

The complete study “Prefabricated Garages and Carports in Austria 2022” can be found here.

“In 2022, the sales markets for prefabricated garages and carports developed in contrasting directions. While one prefabricated garage manufacturer recorded impressive sales figures, driving almost all competitors out of the market, carport suppliers struggled with increasing competition. Several brand-name manufacturers pushed out lesser-known brands, thereby securing a larger market share. Despite these developments, total sales of prefabricated garages and carports are expected to decline in 2022. A decrease of 2.3 percent compared to the previous year, to 2,500 units, is expected for prefabricated garages in particular. However, an increase in sales of single garages is anticipated, while sales of double and row garages are declining.”

Carports have been very popular in Germany for years as an alternative to garages. One possible explanation for this is that carports are generally cheaper than garages and can also be erected more quickly. Furthermore, carports offer the advantage of providing good ventilation for the parked car, thus reducing the formation of moisture.

Demand for carports in Germany has risen steadily in recent years. According to statistics from the Association of the German Wood-Based Materials Industry (VHI), around 160,000 carports were sold in Germany in 2019. This represented an increase of approximately 3% compared to the previous year. More recent figures were not available.

It is likely that this trend will continue in the future, as carports represent an attractive and practical alternative to garages. However, economic factors and external influences could affect this development and potentially lead to fluctuations.

There are several reasons why an aluminum carport might be preferred over one made of wood or steel:

longevity

Aluminium is a durable and corrosion-resistant material option that, unlike wood or steel, will not rot, rust, or deteriorate.

Low maintenance

An aluminum carport requires very little maintenance compared to a wooden or steel carport, as aluminum does not need to be painted or sealed.

Lightweight construction

Aluminium is a lightweight material, which means it is easier to transport and assemble than wood or steel.

flexibility

Aluminum is a very flexible material and can therefore be easily formed into various shapes and designs. This allows carports to be manufactured in different sizes and shapes.

Environmental friendliness

Aluminum is a recyclable material, meaning it can be reused at the end of the carport's lifespan. In contrast, wood can be more difficult to recycle, and steel can rust and lose its structural integrity if not properly maintained.

aesthetics

Aluminum carports offer a modern and attractive look that complements contemporary homes and buildings. Furthermore, there is a wide selection of colors and finishes to choose from, ensuring the carport blends seamlessly with the rest of the building.

If you're planning a carport or a prefabricated garage, then choose Xpert.Solar for competent and complete implementation.

Xpert.Solar offers expert and comprehensive installation of photovoltaic systems in carports and prefabricated garages. The company specializes in the planning, installation, and maintenance of solar systems and works closely with clients to develop customized solutions. With Xpert.Solar, clients can be confident that their solar systems will be professionally planned and installed, ensuring they maximize the benefits of their investment.

Because solar experts lack the know-how for carport substructures, and carport substructure experts lack the know-how for photovoltaics, Xpert.Solar and its partners offer everything from simple DC installation to AC/DC implementation, depending on requirements.

For large solar carport systems, Xpert.Solar and its partners offer consulting and planning services based on many years of experience.

Free solar carport and solar terrace planner for construction companies, electrical contractors and solar installers – Image: Xpert.Digital

More information here:

• White Label Solar Planner: Free solar carport and solar terrace planner for construction companies, electrical contractors and solar installers