Designers no longer need to sacrifice aesthetics to achieve the benefits of building-integrated photovoltaics in canopies and walkways. New solar PV canopy systems from Duo-GardIndustries Inc. are custom-designed and engineered to integrate as part of a building’s architecture.
The canopies are engineered with a sealed skin and continuous components, eliminating any gaps between panels. This achieves a weather-tight structure for all climatic regions. All wiring is built into framing channels for a clean, contemporary appearance.
Available currently in standard sloped and ridge styles, the canopies are configured for the size and scope required for each project. The turnkey approach includes in-house design, engineering, fabrication, and installation services, as well as technical support to specify, plus field support on photovoltaics. A new in-house steel fabrication facility, opened earlier this year, enhance the ability to customize each project.
Aesthetically, the PV panels can be charcoal gray or blue. Designers can also specify integrated translucent multiwall polycarbonate panels to add diffused daylight. The architectural canopy addition follows Duo-Gard’s introduction earlier this year of solar PV charging stations. BD+C
Related Stories
Architects | Apr 5, 2018
Tech Report 5.0: The Human Touch
Can studying humans at a behavioral level produce better buildings? Cognitive architecture experts are working to find out.
Architects | Apr 4, 2018
How to acquire speaking engagements and hone your skills
So, you understand the benefits, but how do you actually get started with speaking engagements?
Architects | Apr 4, 2018
8 things to consider before using digital media to communicate with employees
The Marlin Company, a visual communications and digital signage provider, published a guide that outlines eight basic questions, along with some advice, about workplace digital signage.
Education Facilities | Mar 30, 2018
How can we design safer schools in the age of active shooters?
How can we balance the need for additional security with design principles that foster a more nurturing next-generation learning environment for students?
Architects | Mar 26, 2018
Designing for homeless facilities: Critical spaces to consider
The City of San Diego is home to the fourth largest homeless population in the U.S.
Education Facilities | Mar 23, 2018
An introvert's oasis: How to create learning environments for all student types
In order to understand why a school day can be so grueling for an introverted student, it’s important to know what it means to be introverted, writes NAC Architecture’s Emily Spiller.
Architects | Mar 22, 2018
The benefits and nuances of integrated design
Achieving integrated design usually means operating under a strong relationship.
Architects | Mar 14, 2018
Becoming nature: The building design evolution meets the living building revolution
With the environmental movement, sustainability became a marker of innovation in design for the built environment.
Office Buildings | Mar 12, 2018
Sound advice on workplace design
Thoughtful design, paired with a change management program to educate staff, can both enhance connectivity and minimize distractions.
Architects | Mar 9, 2018
Designing healthier buildings: Fitwel certification system
The Fitwel certification system is relatively simple and involves registering a building on a custom scorecard.