Solar energy is enhancing the world we live in and let’s not forget to mention that it’s free. You heard that right: free. With solar photovoltaic technology, you can save energy costs all while living in a sustainable environment.
Our consciousness of the environment continues to grow, which means the integration of sustainable building products is becoming more prominent in the design and development of office spaces, homes, universities and colleges, and much more. Architects, homeowners, and building owners are choosing materials that regard their natural surroundings to support a thriving and vibrant planet. Building-integrated photovoltaics have been shedding light
(pun intended) on the importance and effectiveness of utilizing natural sources of energy.
Next to wind and hydro power, solar photovoltaics is the third most prevalent renewable energy source and it’s sweeping the globe. Two types of photovoltaic technology include crystalline solar panels and thin-film laminates. Each transforms the sun’s energy into electric power when solar cells on the panel or laminate are hit by light.
Crystalline panels are composed of crystalline silicon solar cells that are protected with a glass cover. Thin-film laminates are also effective in collecting the sun’s energy. This type of photovoltaic technology is composed of solar cells with a transparent conducting coat on a flexible substrate that can be attached via its adhesive backing to a metal roof.
Photovoltaics are changing the way we live and build, and with metal roofing profiles by Allentown, Pa.-based ATAS International Inc., the solar capabilities are endless. Many ATAS metal roofing products are solar ready, giving homeowners and building owners the ability to make greener choices. Metal is the best selection for both crystalline and BIPV solar systems because, unlike other materials, metal offers the longest service life. When installing a crystalline system that typically is warranted for 25 years of power generation, a building owner is going to want a roofing substrate that has a greater life expectancy than that of the solar panels. Standing-seam panels also provide a natural platform for thin-film laminates and crystalline systems, eliminating the need for installation requiring roof penetration.
ATAS is helping the sun do what it does best-light and heat our indoor world. InSpire, a solar air heating and drying system offered by ATAS, uses the sun’s energy to heat industrial, commercial and residential buildings. The transpired solar collector wall panel is mounted a few inches from the building’s outer wall. The precision perforations in the wall panels allow outside air to travel through the face of the panel. Solar heated air at the surface of the panel is drawn through the perforations where it rises between the two walls and enters the building’s central ventilation system or supply fan. In the summer, by-pass louvers allow cool fresh air to be drawn into the building at night, creating a comfortable environment to start the workday.
InSpire is also valuable during summer months. When solar air heating is not needed, the hot air enters the space behind the panel and is vented at the top by natural convection. The panels act as a sunscreen preventing the sunshine from hitting the building wall, keeping the wall cooler. During cool summer nights, cool outside air enters the bypass damper to bring the cool outdoor air inside.
Benefits of InSpire solar air heating and drying are clear. First and foremost, this system utilizes free solar energy, which means reduced heating costs. The system also improves indoor air quality by cycling fresh outside air through a building’s central HVAC system. This can help in reducing sick building syndrome. InSpire also contributes toward LEED certification credits, qualifies for tax incentives, and provides a strong return on investment.
Applications for InSpire include Industrial/Commercial, Residential/Light Commercial, and modular units. The modular unit can be mounted on a roof, wall, or on the ground, reaching 500 CFM
(7-foot by 9-foot configuration). Using InSpire as a modular unit is advantageous in that it allows for drying fuel savings, extends the life of drying equipment, and improves control of moisture content reduction.
With solar options flourishing, design capabilities are boundless. Innovations in building-integrated photovoltaics are redefining the way we build, ensuring a healthy and sustainable future.
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Liz Valori is the marketing specialist at ATAS International Inc., Allentown, Pa. For more information, visit www.atas.com or download the ATAS Product Line App. To learn more about InSpire, visit www.inspirewall.com.