The Dutch national government aims to have the entire energy supply sustainable by 2050. There are various applications of solar panels both inside and outside the built environment.

Solar panels are one of the most effective, sustainable and eco-friendly products in the field of renewable energy.

We have listed the main alternatives of solar panels on the roof for you:

• Solar panels in the field/meadow
• Solar panels on water
• Solar panels on carports
• Building integrated solar panels (BIPV)

Solar panels in the field are increasingly emerging in the Dutch landscape. It is a good alternative if there is not enough space on the roof to place solar modules, or i fit is more aesthetic to have them out of sight. Even if you want to generate more energy thans pace is available on the roof, a field setup may offer a solution. Moreover, a lot of attention should be paid to the green surface the panels are being placed on.

Due to the large ground surface, the panels can be placed in the most favorable orientation. For example, a South or East-West orientation can be chosen.

East-West: Panels oriented in a East-West position have the most favorable surface use. Panels can be placed respectively side by side. As a result, the average yield per m² is higher because several panels are placed on the surface than South-oriented.

South: Panels oriented tot he South have a higher yield per module, because they are longer exposed tot he sunlight on a daily bases. However, these panels do more shading, which results in more distance between the rows. Meaning that on the same surface, less panels can be placed. Since panels have to be kept clear in a field arrangement.

Solar energy offers a great solution!

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A solar carport not only has the advantage that your car is protected against weather influences, you also generate sustainable energy. The solar panels have a double effect, as they act as roof tiles. There can be integrated gutters that drain the water neatly.

These carports can be equipped with an integrated charging station. This chargin sstation can partly use the generated power from the panels to charge the vehicle. In the Netherlands alone, more than 200.000 electric vehicles are on the road. Since electric driving and charging station are becoming more important, this is a perfect solution.

When charging your car, you can use the generated power from the solar carport!

Innovation in the field of PV applicability does not stand still. Solar panels that float on the water have the advantage that the landscape is not burdened.

Not only in the Netherlands, but worldwide, large water areas are available and not in use. Solar panels seem to be a logical application. This application is a positive double-space option!

The unique thing about floating solar panels is that it has a higher efficiency due to the cooling effect of the water. An even higher efficience can be achieved when the panels move in favor of the sun, also known as ‘’solar tracking’’.

Solar tracking provides optimal efficiency throughout the day. Early in the morning when the sun rises, the island with the panels tilts to the east, in order to catch the first sunrays. In the evening it catches the last sunray, when the sun sets in the west.

Floating panels tot he ignorance of others do not affect the environment. Panels can be placed on large island with greenery. However, you should take a good look at the life underwater!

You can also choose full water coverage with panels. This has the advantage that evaporation can be partly prevented and algea growth is conditionally less.

Building-integrated PV system means that the PV is integrated into the (energetic) building design and is therefore a structural part of the construction of a building. It replaces normal building components.

The example below shows an apartment building, which, thanks to it BIPV application, has a negative EPC score (very energy-efficient building).

In short

Solar panels can be used in almost any way one can imagine.

• Roof
• Field
• Water
• Carports
• Facade / BIPV

Are you interested in one of these applications? Request our free quotation or free advice.

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