On very hot days, it can actually be dangerous to be exposed to the sun without protection. The municipality of Balingen therefore called in experts from Gridparity AG to discuss solutions to this problem. The company's concept is based on canopies with semi-transparent double-glazed modules that offer a high degree of transparency while still providing shade.
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Stable construction made from glulam beams
The roof structures consist of glulam beams that have been treated several times with wood preservative and are available in various colours. These are mounted on galvanised steel tubes. The electrical cables are routed safely through the pipes into the cable ducts in the ground.
Erich Merkle of Gridparity: Glass-glass modules open up new applications (Video)
Such solar roofs increase the comfort for visitors to the outdoor pool. However, local authority finance committees often raise their hands when it comes to buildings. Money is tight and every expenditure is calculated with a sharp pencil.
Electricity yield refinances the plant
The advantage: with this concept, the upgrading of the swimming pool is financed by the electricity yield from the solar modules. This is because the long roofs can easily accommodate 15 or 20 kilowatts of solar modules. Calculated against the pool's electricity requirements - which are highest in summer when the pool is in full operation - amortisation is achieved in six or seven years.
It is also conceivable to install several roofs, with partial or full shading. The construction kits for the beams can be erected by municipal teams, with their own labour.
Carports for the car parks at the baths
Another solution for increasing attractiveness combined with the generation of considerable amounts of electricity are carports for roofing over the car parks at the outdoor pool. More than 100 car parks at the Aqua Magis leisure pool in Plettenberg have been covered with solar carports. The semi-transparent double-glazed modules form the roof surface and allow sufficient light through to prevent dark caves from forming.
Erich Merkle of Gridparity: Transparent complete systems for farmers (video)
The 660 modules produce over 650,000 kilowatt hours of electricity per year, which is used directly in the swimming pool and reduces the electricity bill by over 140,000 euros - every year! This investment is amortised in around four years. (edited: HS)
Erich Merkle is Managing Director of Gridparity AG. The company specialises in solar carports, solar fences and large-scale roofing with glass-glass modules.
