Solar, but not as you know it

ICB is one of Britain's leading suppliers of sustainable, environmentally friendly roofing systems. And it is helping to pioneer the introduction of photovoltaic membranes and panels into the UK with a range of unique systems and products

Established for almost 30 years and supported by a nationwide network of fully trained licensed installers, ICB (International Construction Bureau) Ltd has developed an enviable reputation for delivering quality, reliability and technical excellence.

As well as high performance membranes, ICB is the exclusive UK supplier for Evalon Solar and Solyndra, two products proven to generate green sustainable electricity.

Capable of producing up to 20 percent greater output than the common crystalline type panels, Evalon Solar is literally “electricity on a roll”, providing pure and sustainable electrical power and – because the photovoltaic panels are part of the waterproof membrane – there is no need to compromise waterproofing integrity to connect cables.
Solyndra, hailed as a revolution in photovoltaic systems for creating sustainable green electricity, is also available from ICB. The Solyndra Solar photovoltaic system represents a technological breakthrough - a low cost system that develops the highest possible solar electrical energy output.

Especially developed for flat or typical low slope roof-tops, Solyndra challenges all current thinking around photovoltaics. Traditional flat panels have been replaced by lightweight grilles which simply rest on the roof ready to generate power. The innovative design means they can withstand wind speeds in excess of Force 12 without additional anchorage.

Set to go a long way towards solving the UK’s emerging energy shortage, Solyndra Solar panels are made from copper indium gallium selenide (a material known for its high degree of conversion efficiency) tubes that can produce 20 percent more electricity than any other system. It’s these solar swallowing tubes that drink up so much of the sun’s energy that optimise photovoltaic performance on roofs to the highest levels yet achieved.

When combined with a reflective surface such as an Evalon waterproofing membrane or a solar reflective paint, Solyndra Solar modules absorb solar radiation on all sides. Radiation reflected back from the surface of the roof is additionally converted into electrical power. The electrical power generated can then be used either directly in the building where it is installed or can be sold to an existing energy supplier.

Representing a significant saving in installation costs, compared with other PV systems, the lightweight Solyndra Solar system, resembling a giant grille, can be mounted parallel to the roof and without penetrating its surface. It is possible to double the area covered when compared with conventional PV modules, whilst saving valuable time and costs. Panels and mounts are quickly fixed together on the surface of the roof, enabling installations to be carried out in a third of the time. Once on, it can be easily relocated or moved to carry out any roof repairs beneath it.

On a blustery day, wind load literally blows through the Solyndra module, eliminating the need to anchor the modules down or take any additional measures, even in locations with high wind loads. This natural circulation of air also lowers operating temperatures to guarantee a high energy yield and improved functional reliability.

Delivered as full assemblies, the Solyndra Solar modules can be constructed irrespective of how the roof sealing is laid. Convenient to handle, trained contractors can install the units quickly and efficiently.

Solyndra Solar modules with base legs and connectors have a mass per unit area of just 16kg per sqm. This makes the system perfect for any roof, including low static load roofs common in industrial commercial construction that would otherwise have required cost-intensive additional elevation systems or penetration of the roof to support a conventional PV system.

Guaranteed for 25 years, Solyndra Solar is the photovoltaic system that will pay for itself. Get serious about going green and ask the experts at ICB, the UK’s leading supplier of green roofing solutions, about Solyndra. Capable of generating enough power to run buildings of significant proportion, it’s THE way to generate electricity from your roof.

Other success stories from ICB include Diadem Green Roof Systems and Barrial, a bespoke package of aluminium safety rail systems. To complete the package, ICB supplies a complete range of fabrications from its Bournemouth factory.

For further details visit: icb.uk.com, or email: info@icb.uk.com

For more information regarding Solyndra, visit: icbsolar.uk.com