Hyundai Steel to pioneer solar panels infused with steel for the technology of tomorrow's structures
Hyundai Steel, a South Korean steel manufacturing giant, has taken the helm in a collaborative project to develop the next generation of building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) modules. This initiative, which began in September 2021, involves a broad industrial and academic collaboration, aiming to maximize the advantages of steel and solar technology to create high-performance BIPV modules.
The partnership includes Hyundai Steel, Lotte Construction, Samhwa Paints, Epscore, and Korea University. Each partner brings unique expertise to the table. Hyundai Steel and Samhwa Paints will jointly develop materials for BIPV modules, with the aim of improving durability and enhancing heat conductivity by replacing glass with steel. Lotte Construction will contribute expertise in building systems, while Epscore will be responsible for the development of high-performance BIPV modules. Korea University will provide academic validation and technical advisory support.
The development of these BIPV modules is intended to lead to higher generation efficiency. The goal is to deliver building solutions that contribute to carbon neutrality by combining the strengths of steel with solar technology. The partnership aims to connect the entire value chain, from materials to finished products to building integration.
The partnership is a response to Korea's roadmap for carbon neutrality and the phased mandatory adoption of Zero Energy Buildings. The goal is to extend the mandatory adoption of Zero Energy Buildings from public projects to all new construction by 2050. This collaborative effort is expected to boost performance and accelerate commercialization of BIPV technology, and support global market entry for BIPV technology.
Epscore, a specialist in BIPV manufacturing, will play a central role in product development. The high-performance BIPV modules designed by Epscore are intended to integrate seamlessly into architectural systems. The modules are expected to lead to the creation of aesthetically pleasing and efficient solar solutions for buildings.
The project follows a trend in the photovoltaic industry, where broad industrial and academic collaborations are common in cutting-edge photovoltaic development. Institutions like Fraunhofer ISE, BASF Schwarzheide GmbH, and Brandenburg University of Technology (BTU) have been contributing to sustainable development and innovation in related fields, suggesting their potential engagement in similar collaborative projects.
Traditionally, glass has been the material of choice for solar modules. However, the use of steel in BIPV modules is expected to offer several advantages, including improved durability, enhanced heat conductivity, and better integration into architectural systems. The development is a result of the broad industry-academia collaboration, and it is set to revolutionize the way solar energy is integrated into buildings.
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