New solar module for pavement applications
Hungary-based Platio Solar launched new solar modules for PV pavement applications at the recent Smarter E event in Munich, Germany.
“They rely on a new frame structure that provides better protection for the glass surface,” Marketing Manager Helga Ruscsák told pv magazine. “They can be used for pavement, terraces, driveways, sidewalks, parks, bicycle roads, marinas, and low traffic roads, as well as for other industrial and off-grid applications.”
The modules come in variants featuring conventional monocrystalline and polycrystalline cells, with a choice of clear or opal glass. All of the products measure 359 mm x 359 mm x 41 mm and weigh 6.5 kg.
The polycrystalline products feature 156 mm x 156 mm 18.6%-efficient solar cells, with a nominal power of 18.2 W. It has an open-circuit voltage of 2.56 V and a short-circuit current of 8.9 A.
The monocrystalline panels have a power conversion efficiency of 22.3%, an open-circuit voltage of 2.72 V, and a short-circuit current of 8.89 A. They are fabricated with four cells measuring 158.7 mm x 158.7 mm.
The panels are covered by 10 mm of tempered glass treated with an acid-etched pattern. They are also equipped with a frame made of a polymer composite based on low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) with matrix-forming material.
“The frame is made out of 100% recycled plastic,” Ruscsák said.
All the modules have a maximum allowed vehicle wheel load of 2 tons per module. The manufacturer claims a vehicle with a maximum weight of 8 tons could drive on the modules.
“We do not intend to build solar highways or solar roads with our products,” said Ruscsák.
Platio Solar said the solar cells have the same lifecycle of those used in conventional panels, despite being exposed to mechanical stress.
“Several tests have been performed at this regard during the CE certification process,” Ruscsák said, noting that the modules have a low-voltage system, which makes walking on them a safe option.
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[…] a recent industry event in Germany, Hungarian company Platio Solar revealed a very useful new solar module that can be used for flooring or outdoor spaces. Given some bad experiences solar ground installations have faced, especially solar roadways, it […]
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I’m not absolutely convinced here, either, but I can imagine some low-traffic areas where these might be just fine, and at least making use of the space.
There are better ways to do solar. Stop trying to put it in the ground. Rooftops are so much better for it. Just check out eev blog for solar freaking roadways and you’ll start to see why this isn’t much for than a grift.
[…] From pv magazine […]
I think the solar road has been tried and failed already – yes each panel might be able to hold 2 ton’s, but when you get a little stone or gravel on there & your car rolls onto that – cracked panels because the pressure is more in a small space – like hitting it with one of those Glass breaking hammer’s that’s pointed at the end – or even if there’s a stone in your tyres tread.
[…] von pv magazine International […]
I find all the info very encouraging but trying to find a reliable installer is worse than the problem of weeding out the not so good firms. I cannot get my head round the DC AC AC DC AC why not DC AC why th inefficient route. Derek.
[…] a recent industry event in Germany, Hungarian company Platio Solar revealed a very useful new solar module that can be used for flooring or outdoor spaces. Given some bad experiences solar ground installations have faced, especially solar roadways, […]