Aluminum Solar Structures for Sustainable Architecture

The use of solar technology is on the rise and the benefits have been proven to be extremely impactful on sustainable architecture. In an effort to guide the world towards environmentally friendly solutions, designers are being encouraged to find unique approaches to include renewable energy in modern design. 

Incorporating solar power means an architect is challenged with designing a structure that is both durable and aesthetically pleasing while maximizing its overall performance. One of these approaches is the addition of a solar carport, sometimes called a solar canopy, to a commercial or residential design.

What is a solar carport?

These highly engineered structures are an innovative upgrade from the traditional carport and offer more than just shade for your vehicle. Solar Photovoltaic (PV) systems convert sunlight into electricity, allowing you to use renewable energy to power your home or commercial building, as well as serve as an electric vehicle charging port.

How do solar carports work?

Solar power is created using photovoltaic PV grids that harvest energy from the sun and convert into usable electrical energy. These structures are high-yielding in sunny climates during daylight hours, and depending on the size and angle of the arrays, can produce different amounts of energy.

What are the advantages of a solar carport?

• Space efficiency - Solar carport structures are built over pre-designated space so incorporating solar panels doesn't need to be at the expense of extra land
• Minimizing expenses - Solar carport systems yield significant savings for commercial and residential buildings by lowering costly energy bills. Some areas even allow an exchange of generated power through your solar carport for credits on your bill. 
• Easy maintenance - Solar panels do not require much maintenance and rarely have issues with long-term exposure to the elements
• Highly customizable - Like with all of our solutions, customization is key to achieving the desired aesthetics and functionality. Solar panels can be installed at angles that maximize the amount of exposure to sunlight, while the frame can be designed with flexible colors and the option to match branding colors.
• Environmental responsibility - Show consumers and those entering your building that you’ve made a commitment to sustainability by using architecture to harvest clean energy and reduce your carbon footprint

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The Impacts of Solar Energy on Sustainable Architecture

Sustainable design is the strategic implementation of eco-friendly methods that ultimately limit our negative impacts on the environment. The demand on our limited energy resources has evolved to the point that eventually transitioning to renewable energy sources is no longer an option, but a must. Solar energy systems are a clean, cost-effective alternative to fossil fuels and do not produce air pollution or greenhouse gases. With this technology, buildings can produce at least as much energy as they use, completely eliminating any negative environmental influences.

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Our team recently wrapped up the installation of a 24,000 square foot parking structure project in downtown San Antonio, complete with a solar PV system and a rainwater and condensate water collection system. This system allows the building to store over 100,000 gallons of rain and condensate for treatment and reuse!