A particularly efficient method of generating clean and CO₂-neutral energy is the installation of Photovoltaics on flat roofsas they are often found on commercial and industrial properties. They are usually unshaded, and PV systems need to be installed on them. No classic building permit and in some cases PV systems on commercial and industrial buildings in Germany are already Legal requirement.
The advantages of photovoltaics on flat roofs
Flat roofs offer ideal conditions for the installation of photovoltaic systems. Compared to pitched roofs, flat roofs always allow the solar panels to be optimally aligned by elevating them in order to capture the sunlight efficiently. This alignment allows a higher energy production per square meter to be achieved. Various alignment methods are also conceivable, so that electricity can still be generated in the early morning or late evening hours. In addition, flat roofs often offer sufficient space for a large-area arrangement of solar modules.
Technical aspects and installation
Flat roofs actually have a gradient of at least 2 % and are usually bitumen or foil roofs. They are often filled with gravel or greened. Under the bitumen, PVC or FPO foil, they are usually insulated with polystyrene or rock wool. As with all roof types, existing properties with flat roofs should first be insulated. Statics check be made. If the Roof load reserve If the roof surface is large enough, foil and bitumen roofs are very suitable for PV systems, as there is no side of the roof facing away from the sun due to the flat surface and the solar modules can be optimally aligned with the appropriate mounting. With flat roofs, the entire roof surface is usually available for a PV project.
A photovoltaic system can also be installed on typical flat gravel roofs without any problems, provided they have load-bearing reserves. However, the amount of gravel can also be reduced, as the mounting systems with the PV modules additionally weigh down the roof. This type of PV installation also has the advantage that the individual modules are rear-ventilated and can therefore be used on hot days. more yield generate. The same also applies to green roofs, which some companies have received as a compensatory measure as a building requirement.
Green roofs and PV systems are not mutually exclusive and can be combined very well. The elevation of the modules is simply placed slightly higher so that the vegetation underneath retains sufficient light and space. All the positive effects of a green roof are retained in this way: Sound, UV and temperature protection as well as the ecological benefits. Photovoltaics on flat roofs, as with all buildings or extensions, is subject to enormous Pressure and suction forces exposed. This wind load must be taken into account during planning and is divided into four categories in Germany. Wind load zones divided. In addition, there are various Terrain categories and snow load zonesthat play a role and must be taken into account.
Roof check provides planning security
The roof check examines the general condition of the roof, whether Damage on the flat roofs and whether roof windows, skylights, lightning conductors, ventilation shafts or smoke and heat protection systems need to be taken into account when planning the PV system. We also assess which solar modules, elevation and mounting systems are possible. With the Friction coefficient determinationThe necessary edge and row spacing of the modules can also be calculated at the same time by the CUBE CONCEPTS experts during a roof inspection or by drone.
Care & maintenance of photovoltaics on flat roofs
Photovoltaic systems have a long service life, which can be extended by regular Maintenance can be extended. Over 30 years term are possible, whereby experience shows that the maintenance costs over 20 years amount to a maximum of 1.5 % of the original investment. Inspections, cleaning and maintenance keep the PV system in optimum condition, lead to higher yields and support the sustainable use of solar energy. Investing in professional maintenance is therefore worthwhile in order to fully exploit the benefits of solar energy and contribute to reducing emissions and protecting the environment. In relation to other types of roof, photovoltaic care and maintenance is also more expensive. more favorableas the systems are installed on flat roofs more easily accessible are.
Efficient energy generation: photovoltaics on flat roofs
Large commercial and industrial flat roofs are ideal for environmentally friendly electricity generation using solar systems. Photovoltaics on flat roofs provide sustainable, green and cost-effective electricity, significantly reduce companies' electricity costs, reduce the carbon footprint, stabilize electricity prices in the long term and increase property value. Almost all existing properties with a roof load reserve of at least 10 kg/m² can be equipped with solar modules. CUBE CONCEPTS offers independent roof checks and tailor-made structural solutions for every roof shape. Even with asbestos roofs or limited statics, in most cases a roof renovation is profitable in order to install a PV system cost-effectively. Subsidy programmes and the CUBE contracting model offer additional incentives for modernization.