PV flat roof systems in the wind tunnel test

Before mounting systems are allowed to be installed, they must comply with corresponding standards, including EN 1991-1-4. Beside all the specifications regarding statics, materials, etc., this standard, including the national annex, contains specific information about wind loads to which PV systems and their mounting systems on roofs are exposed. In times of increasingly strong storms and even hurricanes this is indispensable for safety and must be included in the development. That is why the solar industry relies on so-called wind tunnel tests to keep the ballast of roof-penetration-free flat roof systems as low as necessary. In this blog entry, we explain how these tests are structured and what needs to be taken into account. (more…)

Blog series: PV at IBC SOLAR, part I: The components

Since the founding of IBC SOLAR, we have of course not only equipped our customers with complete PV systems, but also invested in our own in-house system. And this has grown steadily over the years. No wonder, because with almost 250 employees at the Bad Staffelstein headquarters alone, the demand for electricity is correspondingly high. In addition, PV can do a lot, and this comes to the fore with IBC SOLAR’s home system. In a multi-part series, we now provide an insight into the complex PV system: from the components to the development to the complex topics of energy management system (EMS) and e-mobility. (more…)

Green roof meets PV

One thing is for sure, it doesn’t get any greener than installing a photovoltaic system on a green roof. Recent reports have shown that this combination is very effective and has a positive effect on the performance of PV modules, for example, green roofs improve the PV yield. On top of that, the ecological aspect is of course also interesting, as green areas enable new species-rich habitats for flora and fauna due to the partial shading of the roof. There is no doubt that the combination of PV and green roof has its advantages, but there are also some things to consider. (more…)

When it doesn’t get any greener

It is becoming increasingly important for companies to make a contribution to climate protection while at the same time expanding their perception in the area of corporate social responsibility. In addition, the potential of photovoltaics is enormous, especially in the commercial sector, so that many companies throughout Europe are investing in green energy. The prerequisites are certainly given with correspondingly large roof and commercial areas. This was also the case for the Dutch company Capi. Therefore, the manufacturer of sustainable design flower pots did not hesitate for long and invested in a PV plant with a capacity of 1.69 MW. (more…)

Supplier portrait: PV expertise from Switzerland – Meyer Burger

Innovation, experience, tradition and courage – Meyer Burger stands for all of these. With almost 70 years of company history and 40 years of experience in photovoltaics, the Swiss PV expert is one of the industry’s original faces and has set significant technology standards throughout its history. Recently, Meyer Burger also became a partner of IBC SOLAR. This is an opportunity for us to take a closer look at the company and its latest goals. (more…)