September 26, 2007—Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc., and Hydro Building Systems (HBS), a division of Norsk Hydro, have announced plans for the development of a new Brise Soleil product line incorporating thin film flexible solar modules manufactured by Ascent Solar. A variety of designs and prototypes for the new product line are slated for market introduction in November 2007, and sales are expected to begin in early 2008, the companies say.
Brise Soleil and other shading devices are a popular way of controlling solar gain and adding stylish features to a building, according to the announcement. Overhangs or louvers mounted externally to buildings reduce the direct radiation from the sun to keep buildings cool. Shading devices including the enhanced performance provided by solar photovoltaics, gives many opportunities to limit overheating in buildings, reducing the need for energy hungry air conditioning systems, and simultaneously convert the sun’s energy into electricity.
Hydro Building Systems is dedicating a new division to focus on the smart integration of the Ascent Solar solutions into its product portfolio to include windows, doors, sliders, curtain walls and roof lights.
Development Director Werner Jager says: “We see many opportunities to incorporate the flexible thin film solar materials into our product systems brands. The Brise Soleil product line is a great opportunity to demonstrate the advantages of building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems. Our Brise Soleil system analysis shows energy savings over 60% are possible and with the addition of photovoltaics, the combined effect on energy consumption will be very significant.”
Ascent Solar Business Development Vice President Joseph McCabe states, “Ascent Solar is opening many new opportunities for solar applications when compared to more traditional roof-top or solar farm installations. BIPV products become integral part of the building structure rather than an additional bolt-on attachment. This not only reduces the installation cost but also provides additional surface area to generate more power. The beauty in the flexible thin film materials is that we can address both the traditional PV market applications and create entirely new markets where traditional rigid frame PV cannot even play.”
For more information, visit the Hydro Web site and the Ascent Solar Web site.
