Architect Service
Our experienced team will work with architects from initial concept to final installation.
We also provide a tailored educational presentation (CPD) for architects practices who are looking to learn more about this technology.
Isn't solar power expensive?
A solar installation adds as little as 4% to the build cost of an average three bedroom home, but over 10%* to its final value when sold. It also helps ‘future proof' a home against rising fuel prices making properties doubly attractive to price conscious house buyers; as fuel prices continue to rise, energy efficient renewably powered homes will continue to sell at a premium.
What sort of projects are suitable for solar installations?
A project with a brief incorporating social and technical innovation is an ideal candidate for building-integrated PV (BIPV). The most important aspect to consider is the location of the site. The solar installation must receive as much light as possible. Shadows cast by tall trees and neighbouring buildings must be kept in mind during the design process. The best location for solar PV is obviously on the south-facing roof or side of a building.
How can PV glass laminates and flexible thin film PV be used architecturally?
PV glass laminates are attractive and well suited to facades and transparent roof tops. They can be fitted to standard curtain walling structures and are suitable for any application where glass is used, as long as there is reasonable level of light present. Low emissivity glass can be used to give additional thermal insulation benefits, or a PVB laminate can be used for the extra strength required by a roof top.
Thin-film PV is durable and flexible is encased in a water-proof, self-cleaning polymer. It can be used in shingle form for roofing or in more unusual designs that exploit its flexibility.
How can the energy benefits of the PV cells be maximised?
Orientation, shading and the temperature of the PV elements all impact on their output and must be considered at the design stage.
What are the effects of shade?
Shading is critical. Minor shading can result in significant loss of energy. This is because the cell with the lowest illumination determines the operating current of the series string in which it is connected.
Many modern modules use bypass diodes to minimise shade effects; but these effects must still be considered, preferably in the first stages of building design. Watch for landscaping, trees and even handrails.
If shading is unavoidable, or poor light is expected on a regular basis, the best types of PV to use are amorphous thin-film (eg Kaneka/Unisolar products), or hybrid (mixing monocrystalline and amorphous technology - eg Sanyo HIT modules).
What are the lifetimes of PV products?
Solar modules have a manufacturers warranty of 20 years and a working lifetime of 40 years and beyond. Modules of all types usually have a twenty year warranty, as do most thin-film integrated products. Crystalline PV slates and PV glass laminates usually have a ten year warranty. These times are only a rough guide and should be checked for each specific product.
For more information on PV please do not hesitate to contact us to arrange a meeting or presentation.
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