ECONOMIC DRIVERS FOR SOLAR CARPORTS

While designs engage the mind and the use of renewable materials touches the soul, an integrated approach, optimized for LCOE*, makes economic sense.

To innovate towards a circular future that excites and inspires, solutions must make economic sense. That said, dual land use is characterized by building on already developed land - not exactly a green field.

* The levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) is a measure of the average net present cost of electricity generation for a generator over its lifetime. It is used for investment planning and to compare different methods of electricity generation on a consistent basis.

We love visualizations that help explain things.

1. Two rows of car parks opposite each other allow for a "double configuration" of the solar port, improving the LCOE
2. The width of the parking fields determine the distance between the anchoring points of the solar ports. Wider parking fields typically improve LCOE.
3. The driving lane can be covered or not. Covering it will improve the installed capacity. In case of our Model W, this degrades the LCOE compared to using Model V.
4. The face distance between the facing rows typically has a positive effect on the LCOE.
5. The more overhang the parking area design allows for, the more attractive the LCOE can become.
6. Like every solar PV project, the alignment to the compass direction has a direct effect on the energy yield and therefore the LCOE.

The solar ports are tailored to each project to optimize for these three driving factors. Detailed visualizations bring the individual projects to life, inspiring stakeholders and decision-makers and unlocking the perfect solutions for the individual parking space.

Lean structures from planning and environmental design to securing permits and the realization, including architecture and timber construction, improves the efficiency of the project and therefore the LCOE.

To optimize the design of the solar ports for LCOE, approaches from utility-scale solar installations have been integrated.

Featuring strategic overhangs for wood protection and longevity, the systems are designed for bi-facial solar modules, providing integrated shelter from rain, snow, and hail without additional roofing, and prolonging the life of the installation.

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