Gehrlicher Solar and Masdar PV build roof-top installation with full-size modules in Belgium

ICHTERSHAUSEN/DORNACH near MUNICH, GERMANY: The 5.7 m² large thin-film solar modules from Masdar PV gleam in the sunshine with a slightly reddish hue. In this showpiece project, Gehrlicher Solar, in the role of system integrator, working together with Masdar PV, has demonstrated the versatility of full-size modules.

The innovative installation in Belgium was recently hooked up to the power grid for the French customer InnoVent. The 7.7 kWp roof-top installation is the second of its kind with modules of this size as roof elements.

This is the continuation of the successful co-operation between Gehrlicher Solar and Masdar PV. The project entailed challenging requirements in terms of innovative and engineering abilities, as did their first cooperative project. The building on which the thin-skin solar modules were to be mounted was an old barn built back in the late 19th century.

The structure’s age and its sloping roof made it necessary to use a special sub-construction for the modules. The experts from Gehrlicher had the right solution to hand though: the GehrTec Intra substructure allowed Masdar PV’s solar modules to be fully integrated into the roof and thus create a completely rain-proof roof system.

Since the substructure required only a few system components and the a-Si solar modules offer an excellent cost-benefit ratio, the system’s total costs are such as to render it very attractive to investors. “We are proud to have carried out this project with Gehrlicher Solar,” said Dr. Matthias Peschke, COO of Masdar PV. Following our joint pilot project for a façade-integrated system in Munich, we have once again been able to offer our customer an innovative and aesthetically appealing solution.”

Klaus Gehrlicher, CEO of Gehrlicher Solar, is also very pleased with the latest joint effort, adding, “By using our well-tested substructure in combination with the full-size modules from Masdar PV, we can offer our customers solutions that are even more economical.”

For InnoVent, the project planner, this example of co-operation with Gehrlicher Solar and Masdar PV represents the prelude to a good business relationship. The highly innovative company, whose achievements include that of building one of the first wind farms in France, is also developing projects based on solar and wind energy in southern Africa. Products from Masdar PV are currently being used there as well.