13.05.2014 / Further information about publication:
Schüco International KG
Ulrike Krüger
Karolinenstr. 1–15
33609 Bielefeld, Germany
Tel.: +49 (0)521 783-803
Fax: +49 (0)521 783-950803
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Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) from Schüco:
System-integrated solar solutions
for a wide range of window and façade solutions
BIPV modules for Schüco window and façade systems offer numerous options for combining solar energy use with individual architecture in an intelligent way. The crystalline modules with individual module construction can be integrated in Schüco ventilated, ventilated/non-ventilated or non-ventilated façades, as well as in windows, skylight constructions, solar shading solutions and canopies. All modules are IEC-certified and have general building authority approval as laminated safety glass from the German Institute of Civil Engineering (DIBt).
Should modern architecture wish to express aspects such as ecological awareness and sustainability in a façade, there are few design features more effective than building-integrated photovoltaics. Visible BIPV modules signal their energy-related function through their clearly recognisable "solar look" and, at the same time, can be seamlessly integrated into the multifunctional nature of the system technology of modern windows and façades. Alongside solar electricity generation, additional functions, such as thermal insulation, weather protection, sound reduction and solar shading are fulfilled as required, depending on the design. In the process, homogeneity is achieved through full integration into the respective Schüco system component. For planners, this allows BIPV modules to be treated in the same way as conventional infill units and complement the additional structural functions of the specific installation location accordingly.
Tailored additional functions
Maximum system compatibility, standardised installation and fixing components and visual and electrical quality tests ensure easy installation, a uniform look and trouble-free technical operation - including a 10-year output guarantee* - for the BIPV modules in Schüco window and façade systems. At the same time, the approval for the laminated safety glass in the BIPV modules is also especially advantageous for their function. Protected by highly tear-resistant film on both sides, the cells lie between two panes of glass, which may consist of toughened safety glass or even laminated safety glass (on the room side), depending on the area of application and requirements. As a weatherproof, enclosed unit, the BIPV module can not only be used as a ventilated construction in the façade, but also as a unit consisting of double or triple-layer insulating glass which is exposed to the weather in highly thermally-insulating non-ventilated façades.
Design flexibility thanks to customisation and
individual cell configuration
Schüco supplies the BIPV modules as custom-built units, which can be adapted to the design ideas of the architect in terms of structure, size, format and colour. There are two monocrystalline cell variants and one polycrystalline variant available, which ensure that the respective PV infill unit has its own individual visual character. A further design criterion is the cell configuration, i.e. the number and position of the cells within a unit. Here, it is possible to gradually vary the visual transparency by covering between 30% and 90% of the unit surface area. Aside from any visual considerations, the cells can also be configured in accordance with the thermal insulation values desired for the respective installation location and energy output as well as solar shading and screening requirements.
The appearance of the cells themselves is also an important aspect of the design. Thanks to the refined anti-reflective layers, the crystal boundaries are hardly visible in the new cell variants. The previously broken, crystalline appearance of the PV modules, which was perceived as unsettled, has thus given way to a homogeneous unit aspect. In the standard colours blue and black, the BIPV modules are available in individual glass dimensions of between 300 mm x 200 mm and a maximum of 5000 mm x 2200 mm - and also as "customised panes" in some special shapes.
Functionally and visually integrated into the system world
Within the integrated world of Schüco systems, BIPV modules are suitable for use in newbuilds as well as energy-efficient renovation projects. In conjunction with the tried-and-tested Schüco window and façade systems, as well as inverters, they create a flexible complete system for the building envelope. Whether in the Schüco canopy systems TopSky 1+2, in the Schüco Brise Soleil passive large louvre blade system or in the Schüco FW 50+/FW60+, AOC, ERC and SFC window and façade systems, as well as in six variants of the AWS family of systems.
Important note:
Within Schüco, building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) forms part of the Metal division and therefore continues to be one of its areas of core expertise in windows, doors and façades. It remains unaffected by the forthcoming takeover of the Schüco photovoltaic system business in the New Energies division by Viessmann Photovoltaik GmbH in Allendorf, Germany, which is planned for 1 June 2014.
* Output guarantee of 90% Pmpp min in accordance with the Schüco International KG conditions of warranty.
Schüco – System solutions for windows, doors and façades
Together with its worldwide network of partners, architects, specifiers and investors, Schüco creates sustainable building envelopes which focus on people and their needs in harmony with nature and technology. The highest demands for design, comfort and security can be met, whilst simultaneously reducing CO2 emissions through energy efficiency, thereby conserving natural resources. The company and its Metal and PVC-U divisions deliver tailored products for newbuilds and renovations, designed to meet individual user needs in all climate zones. With 4800 employees and 12,000 partner companies, Schüco is active in 78 countries and achieved turnover of 1.5 billion euros in 2013. For more information, visit
Picture credits:
Building-integrated photovoltaics:
The Schüco façade signals its energy-related function through its clearly recognisable "solar look".
Picture credits: Schüco International KG
Schüco façade with monocrystalline BIPV modules: Thanks to a variable level of cell coverage in the units of between 30% and 90%, the visual transparency can be varied individually. In doing so, the g value gradually changes from 44% at 30% cell coverage to 15% at 90% cell coverage.
Picture credits: Schüco International KG
Schüco offers a wide variety of possible uses for building-integrated photovoltaics, including solutions for overhead areas. Following DIBt approval for use as laminated safety glass, BIPV modules can be used as infill units in the respective Schüco system construction in these installation locations without the need for additional fixing.
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