Integrated solar modules add power for tensile structures
Specialtyfabricsreview.com | December 21, 2009
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) invested $250,000 in product development for flexible tensile structures with integrated solar modules for a wide range of applications. FTL Solar, Austin, Texas, mass-produces pre-fabricated photovoltaic (PV) tensile structures that turn sunlight into electricity. NYSERDA president Francis J. Murray says the investment will “attract clean energy efficiency manufacturing jobs to our state.”
Ascent Solar, Thornton, Colo., developed the flexible thin-film PV modules, which it supplies to FTL Solar for integration into flexible, super-strength composite fabrics. Among the products already sold by FTL Solar are shaded parking structures, rooftop installations and solar tents, but the applications are endless and customers are eagerly awaiting cost-effective energy-saving solutions.
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FTL Solar’s PowerMod® freestanding unit is considered the first production-ready flexible PV architectural structure product. -
The PowerSquad tent features an advanced aluminum folding frame, a main cover made of sand-colored army fabric, and a PV fly designed for solar orientation and optimized electricity generation. Photo: FTL Solar. -
The basic module for the PowerMod® is shown set up in linked multiples as a desert energy field. Photo: FTL Solar.
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Comments are the opinion of individual posters and do not reflect the views of Specialty Fabrics Review or Industrial Fabrics Association International.
6:22 am CDT
Respected Sir/Madam,
Will Your product be cost effective compared to the ordinary PVC?
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