Energy Research Institute B.V.

Solar Panels
Energy Research uses only the most efficient solutions to achieve its mission.
That's why we also focus mainly on Thin-Film solar panels. These panels are
paving the way into a future, where we are able to integrate solar panels directly
into buildings and metropolitan structures as an integrated part of these
constructions. Energy Research Institute is already able today, to supply
the panels of the future. Where offering Thin-Film solar panels that are easy to
integrate into building, self-supporting and which do not need a supporting
structure are frame around them anymore. As a consequence it is possible to
build whole façades out of thin-film panels which do not only have a design effect,
but also generate a major chunk of the energy needed inside the building.
These so called building integrated photovoltaics are the future of energy
generation, and make you a part of it.

How Does It Work?
Sunlight can be considered as light waves (wave theory) or as packets of
energy (photon theory). The explanation of the photovotaic effect is easiest
when you think of light as energy packets: photons.
A solar cell is made up of two layers of semiconducting material: P and N. The
boundary between P and N acts as a diode: electrons can move from N to P
but not the other way. Photons with sufficient energy hitting the cell cause
electrons (-) to move from the P layer into the N layer. An excess of electrons
build up in the N-layer while the P layer builds up a shortage. This is the
voltage difference that can be used as a power source.

Easy To Install
To install a solar panel on your roof is relatively easy because:
There are no restrictions by terrain in the way that wind and hydro-power
systems have, and
There are no moving parts to fix.
You could fix a solar panel in various ways on your roof. It depends on the
used attachment system. E.g.
The use of metal supports or frames to mount the panels,
The use of metal hooks to mount the panels on tiled roofs, and
In the form of flat, waterproof panels. These panels can replace other
roofing material.