Cylindrical-shaped photovoltaics harness sunlight from every direction

Carlisle Construction Materials has formed a strategic partnership with Silicon Valley startup Solyndra to offer Solyndra's proprietary cylindrical-shaped photovoltaic modules as part of an integrated reflective membrane/PV roof system. The Solyndra PV array is composed of 40 “baton-shaped” solar cells spaced a few inches apart and mounted to a light-gauge steel frame. This unusual configuration allows the PV array to collect solar energy from all directions, including the sunlight that passes through the gaps between the cells and bounces off the white reflective roof membrane. The panels perform optimally when mounted horizontally and packed closely together, covering more available roof area and producing more electricity per rooftop on an annual basis than a conventional panel installation, according to the maker. The array is also self-ballasting, so no roof penetrations or attachment methods are required.

Carlisle and Solyndra

Input No. 208 at BDCnetwork.com/quickResponse