Technology

Solar façades with unprecedented design possibilities

A solar panel placed on a flat roof typically produces the most energy when it's directly facing the sun during peak sunlight hours, usually around noon on the hottest days of the year. However, the highest demand for electricity often occurs when the sun is lower in the sky, such as in the morning or evening. To address this issue, ZigZagSolar has developed unique solar panels.

In partnership with TNO, TU Delft, and TU/E, ZigZagSolar has created specialized simulation software for designing solar façades. This software has been validated in test setups in both controlled environments and real-world applications in the Netherlands and India.

ZigZagSolar is the only provider capable of accurately predicting the energy output of solar façades. This prediction takes into account various factors like location, orientation, surrounding environment, and horizon. By inputting these parameters, the software determines the optimal angles, number, and arrangement of panels to maximize energy production for a specific location.

The new generation of solar façades

The solar panels in the 'Zig' position are angled to capture maximum sunlight for optimal energy output. Meanwhile, the 'Zag' aspect comprises decorative panels designed to reflect sunlight onto the solar panels, increasing their efficiency in converting sunlight into electricity. Throughout each month of the heating season, a ZigZagSolar panel generates a higher energy yield compared to a standard flat roof solar panel. In December, particularly in Western Europe, this yield can even double. This setup is perfect for pairing with a heat pump
or for powering electric vehicles.

Both high, direct sunlight and low, reflected light are captured by the solar panel.

This guarantees a 50% increase in electrical efficiency compared to a traditional vertical solar façade. Interestingly, in Western Europe, ZigZagSolar achieves up to a 100% higher efficiency in December compared to standard roof-mounted solar panels. This is particularly advantageous as December represents the peak of the energy transition challenge during this time of year.

High yield when demand is highest

As depicted in the graph, ZigZagSolar demonstrates notably superior yields during spring, autumn, and winter in Western Europe compared to traditional roof-mounted setups, particularly during periods of heightened energy demand. Conversely, roof setups tend to create grid peaks during summer months. Similarly, on a daily basis, ZigZagSolar outperforms during morning and afternoon hours, whereas roof setups peak around midday.

The yield of ZigZagSolar in the spring, fall and winter is significantly higher than that of the rooftop setup, at times when energy demand is high most European countries. In every month of the heating season, the yield of a solar panel in ZigZagSolar is higher than the yield of a solar panel on a flat roof. For heat pump and electric transport applications, this is a huge advantage.

The Duck-Curve describes how the value of electricity increasingly depends on the time of day it is offered or demanded.

The more solar panels on a flat roof of a building, the lower the value of electricity in the middle of
a sunny summer day.

Solar panels on flat roofs provide little solar energy in the early morning, evening, fall, winter and spring. ZigZagSolar’s high-tech solar facade can harvest much more solar energy than flat-roofed solar panels precisely during these hours. It also reduces the overload of the power grid.

Maximum architectural freedom

As an observer standing on ground, you can only see the decorative panels, which can be customized to your preferences. These panels are available in a wide range of colors and materials, including printed aluminum composite, HPL, Trespa, ceramic plates, or glass, offering versatility and aesthetic appeal.

Technology

Solar façades with unprecedented design possibilities

The new generation of solar façades

High yield when demand is highest

Maximum architectural freedom

General

ZigZagSolar