Global Solar presents flexible module for large-scale rooftop BIPV sector

Global Solar Energy has unveiled a lightweight module targeted at the commercial and industrial flat-rooftop market. The copper-indium-gallium (di)selenide (CIGS) module, called the PowerFLEX BIPV, has a large 5.75m × 0.50m format and a 300W power rating. The new product’s commercial launch is set for the first quarter of 2010.

The PowerFLEX BIPV module directly addresses the biggest concerns posed by the roofing industry regarding solar integration as it is lightweight, can be applied directly to a roofing surface, requires no mounting hardware, no roof penetrations, and creates no additional wind load. Designed especially for roofs, the PowerFLEX BIPV maintains the integrity and aesthetics of a building structure.

Unlike conventional glass modules, which are heavy, rigid and typically installed at an angle on racks, PowerFLEX BIPV modules are lightweight and flexible, and can be installed directly on the roofing surface. This allows the modules to cover a greater amount of rooftop space that, depending on the location of the building, can equate to 50-100% more power and energy per rooftop than a tilted solar array. This advantage is particularly acute at higher latitudes.

“At Global Solar, we recognized that the building industry has not been able to fully optimize the real estate on the rooftop with solar solutions currently available,” said Dr. Jeff Britt, CEO of Global Solar Energy. “We worked closely with roofing professionals when we designed the PowerFLEX BIPV, and their experience mattered to us. Leveraging their input, we now offer a high-powered module that will create the most powerful rooftops in the world.”