Advantage of glass solar panels over thin film solar panels
Is that thin film wrapped around the Soluxio pole? This is a question we get a lot, and the short answer is no. FlexSol’s solar panels are not made of thin film or wrap around panels. In fact, there is nothing ‘wrapped’ around the pole. To explain, FlexSol’s solar panels are made of real monocrystalline solar cells and a borosilicate glass tube. These solar cells are also used in the best flat solar panels available on the market. The unique design makes it possible to slide the glass solar panel over the pole and to stack multiple cylindrical panels on top of each other. In this way, you can generate more solar energy when required.
Higher efficiency with FlexSol’s glass solar panels
Over 10 years ago FlexSol Solutions developed a unique way to curve monocrystalline solar cells. This innovative technology allows us to integrate highly efficient monocrystalline solar cells into, for example, cylindrical modules. As a result of working with monocrystalline solar cells, FlexSol’s solar panels have a much higher efficiency than thin-film solar panels.
Fact check: thin-film solar cells have an efficiency of 18%, while FlexSol’s solar cells have an efficiency of over 24%. Consequently, you get way more performance out of a FlexSol solar panel than one made with thin film.
Inside the cylindrical glass solar module
Safety glass versus plastic
Since the beginning of the Soluxio solar pole, FlexSol has worked with specific borosilicate glass tubes instead of plastic tubes. Using these glass tubes provides a number of benefits. One major benefit is that glass does not degrade or discolor over time. This is different compared to plastic material which will start to deteriorate and turn yellow.
Another advantage is the construction of the glass module which is similar to layered safety glass. Consequently, if a Soluxio solar streetlight is unfortunately being run over by a car, the glass will not shatter. In fact, it is being held together by the construction of the laminated glass. This is a big safety advantage.
Other benefits of glass solar modules
Other benefits of FlexSol’s borosilicate glass solar panels:
- The solar panels have a super smooth surface. This way, dirt, dust and snow cannot stick on the glass panel.
- The smooth glass gives the Soluxio a shiny, one-of-a-kind elegant look.
- Glass solar modules do not degrade over time, unlike plastic material.
- Glass is 100% recyclable; it can be transformed into a new product without ever losing its quality.
Additionally, moist will not accumulate inside the solar panel, because the solar cells are directly bonded with glass.
Meet the Soluxio solar pole at Schott’s booth at the GlassTec Trade Fair
Visit us at the GlassTec 2022 in Dusseldorf, Germany
Because FlexSol values working with durable and sustainable materials, we are proud to join Schott at the GlassTec Trade Fair at Düsseldorf, Germany on 20 -23 September. Integrating Schott’s glass tubes in our Soluxio solar poles is a great example of using glass in an innovative and sustainable way.
Will we see you at Schott’s booth A22 in hall 11 at the GlassTec?
