Barcelona implements a public pergola integrating VIDURSOLAR PV-glass modules

In the scope of rehabilitation of urban space, the city of Barcelona opted for integrating a public pergola with a glazed roof made of 270 glasses of which 240 incorporate active PV-cells. This project is situated at the Av. Estatut near Botticelli place in the upper part of the city.

In the design phase of the project, environmental and energetic sustainability was one of the main aspects for drawing up the general specifications. So, the integration of renewable energy was seen as an important goal, but a big challenge seemed to be matching the renewable energy generation with an attractive architectural design. For this, PV-glass-modules were specified that had to comply with the common safety aspects for overhead glazing in public spaces, a major challenge for PV-modules.

In order to meet all the objectives VIDURSOLAR PV-glass modules were used, that could comply with all the requirements, like high efficient energy generation on the one hand and safety aspects and aesthetics on the other hand. The glazed roof of the pergola consists of 240 VIDURSOLAR PV-glasses with dimensions of 2,1 x 1,1 m. They are mounted on aluminium profiles subjected on a steel substructure. In order to comply with mechanical safety requirements a 6+8 laminate with a total thickness of 15,5mm was used and with PVB as interlayer, specially important for to guarantee the fulfilment of safety regulations. In total, 65kWp were installed, generating clean energy that is fed into the local grid for self-consumption in the maintenance centre for municipal parks situated in the same area.

Apart from this, 70 glasses were installed that simulate PV-cell design by screen-printing, in order to finish the pergola in shaded areas and in areas where the glasses had to be produced in different shapes. In these glasses active PV-cell integration would not have been cost-effective. This improves significantly aesthetics by a completely homogeneous design of the roof, whilst optimising costs.

On the other hand, also in order to comply with aesthetic requirements, an edge terminal connection system was used. So, the electrical terminals and the cabling are entirely hidden inside the aluminium support profile and cannot be seen.

It is important to state, that all safety norms for glass in construction has been fulfilled. Additionally, since January 2011, VIDURSOLAR PV-glass modules count with an official certificate according to the norms IEC EN 61215 y IEC EN 61730 for a family of products.

This architectural project shows that PV-technology can play an important role regarding the integration of renewable energy into urban spaces. With tailor-made PV-glass modules like those of VIDURSOLAR, construction elements with modern and innovative design and, above all, offering economical payback, can be applied. Their multi-functionality can be a key-aspect for its major use in the construction sector as, like in the present case. These PV-elements generate green electrical energy, offer shading and physical protection and additionally, represent an aesthetically unique and ecological image.