The design of sustainable and highly efficient solutions is one of the main paths of development within Airclos systems, therefore, our systems are improved every day and incorporate new elements. 

One of the latest additions is photovoltaic glass for our mobile and fixed roofs. A revolutionary option for those projects with glass systems in which sustainability and efficiency are key.

These innovative solar panels are integrated into the glass offering a unique combination of functionality and aesthetics, allowing to harness solar energy efficiently without sacrificing architectural design.

What are photovoltaic glass?

Within the photovoltaic solar energy systems integrated into buildings (in English known as Building Integrated Photovoltaics or by its acronym BIPV) find photovoltaic glass (also known as solar glass or solar windows). Photovoltaic glass is transparent solar panels designed to replace conventional glass in buildings and structures. These panels are capable of converting sunlight into electricity taking advantage of the photovoltaic effect, similar to traditional solar panels.

Their great functionality and aesthetics make them an ideal option to integrate into Airclos Mobile Roof systems.

Technology and operation of photovoltaic glass:

Photovoltaic glass is composed of a series of thin layers of semiconductor materials that generate electricity by absorbing sunlight.

The outermost layer can be made of tempered, laminated or laminated-tempered glass. The latter would be the one used in our systems, providing resistance and protection against impacts.

Below the glass is a transparent layer of fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO), which acts as a transparent electrode.

The photovoltaic layer itself is located under the transparent electrode. It can be a layer of amorphous silicon or other semiconductor materials, such as perovskites or cadmium telluride. These materials have the property of generating electricity when sunlight reaches them.

Additionally, some PV glass also includes a reflective layer on the back to increase efficiency by redirecting light that was not absorbed in the first pass. These thin layers of materials are interconnected by means of a system of cables and electrical contacts, allowing the collection and transport of the generated electricity to the storage or consumption system.

Photovoltaic glass used in Airclos mobile and fixed roofs:

In our mobile and fixed roofs we use the latest generation photovoltaic glass, ideal for any type of application due to its minimal chemical pollution and zero noise pollution.

It is important to bear in mind that the photovoltaic glass will always be installed on the fixed panes when it is a mobile roof.

Below we will analyze in detail the composition of the glasses used in Airclos.

Composition

The composition of the glass that we install in our roofs is 3+3 T (PV Cells) /14 / 3+3T.

Front Side

Laminated-tempered glass characterized by:

• High emissivity.
• Low reflectivity.
• Low iron content.

PV cells

These photovoltaic modules use high-efficiency monocrystalline silicon cells (the cells are made of a single crystal of very high-purity silicon) to transform the energy of solar radiation into direct current electrical power.
Each cell is electrically classified to optimize the behavior of the module.
Its performance is excellent across the full range of the light spectrum, with particularly high performances in low light or cloudy situations in direct sunlight (diffuse radiation).

Encapsulating

The cell circuit is laminated using:

• PVB (Polyvinyl Butyral).

Back

The back contains a laminated-tempered glass that provides complete protection and sealing against environmental agents and electrical insulation.

Junction box

The IP67 junction box is made of high temperature resistant plastics and contains terminals, connection terminals and by-pass diodes.

These modules are supplied with symmetrical cables in length, with a diameter with a copper section of 4 mm and a very low contact resistance, designed to achieve minimum losses due to voltage drop strong>.

These cables are easily integrated and hidden in the profiles of the ceiling itself.

Performance

Our modules comply with all safety requirements, both in terms of flexibility, double insulation, or high resistance to UV rays, therefore they are ideal for use in outdoor applications.

Quality controls

We have a quality control divided into three elements:

• Periodic inspections that allow us to guarantee the quality of the raw material.
• Quality control within the process on our manufacturing procedures.
• Quality control of finished products, which we carry out through inspections and reliability and performance tests.

Certificates

Our photovoltaic modules have been certified by Laboratories of recognized international prestige and are proof of our strict adherence to international standards for safety, long-term performance and overall product quality.

Comparison between photovoltaic glass

Due to the differences in the dimensions of our systems, the values obtained by the glass will be different according to the series. Here is a comparative table:

T6000

Values for each fixed panel.

• Peak Solar Hours: 6 days.
• Average irradiation: 1000 W/m2.
• Energy generated: 2.37 kWh/day.
• CO2 emissions avoided: 716.26 kg/CO2 per year (compared to oil/gas)

T8000

Values for each fixed panel.

• Peak Solar Hours: 6 days.
• Average irradiation: 1000 W/m2.
• Energy generated: 3.16 kWh/day
• CO2 emissions avoided: 955.62 kg/CO2 per year (compared to oil/gas)

Practical applications:

Mobile and fixed roofs with photovoltaic glass offer a wide range of practical applications in the field of construction and architecture.

In Airclos roofs, its main application will be on fixed and mobile roofs (in this case only on fixed sheets) in roof and veranda projects. In this way, we take advantage of areas exposed to the sun to generate electricity and provide shade at the same time. This combination of features makes them an ideal choice for solar power projects integrated into existing structures.

Advantages of photovoltaic glass:

Photovoltaic glass has numerous advantages compared to traditional solar panels. Some of the key benefits are:

• Use of surface: By using photovoltaic glass instead of conventional glass, you can make the most of the area exposed to the sun in a building, increasing electricity production.
• Cost reduction: By generating electricity on-site, PV glass reduces the costs associated with purchasing and transporting electrical energy, while providing a sustainable energy solution.
• Architectural integration: Photovoltaic glass offers an aesthetically appealing appearance and adapts to different architectural designs, allowing seamless integration into buildings without compromising aesthetics.

Grants and subsidies:

Given the importance of the transition to cleaner energy sources, many governments and organizations offer grants and incentive programs to encourage the installation of photovoltaic glass. These grants vary by country and region, but often cover part of the installation and material costs.

These grants represent an opportunity for homeowners and businesses to adopt sustainable technologies and reduce their carbon footprint.

Some examples of available grants include:

• Government Grants: Many local and national governments offer grant programs for the installation of solar technologies, including photovoltaic glass. These grants can cover a significant portion of the total project budget, lowering the financial barrier for homeowners and businesses.
• Tax Incentive Programs: Some jurisdictions offer tax incentives, such as tax credits or exemptions, for those who install photovoltaic glass. These incentives help reduce costs in the long run and can be an effective way to encourage the adoption of solar energy.
• Sustainable Development Funds and Programs: Nonprofit organizations, academic institutions, and sustainable development entities also offer grants and