CO2 must come down, but drivers’ needs call for more power

“Perhaps contrary to expectations, the power consumption of new vehicles is only increasing,” says Sander Bredewout, CEO at PartsXpert Wijlhuizen. This is mainly caused by consumption by comfort-enhancing items such as microwaves, coffee machines and refrigerators. Since compromising on this comfort is not a realistic option, it is better to look at solutions that can realise sufficient power without requiring energy from the vehicle’s diesel engine. Green Energy’s solar cells continuously generate energy and recharge the vehicle’s battery. This will save you fuel and thus directly reduce emissions. In addition, there will be less wear on the generator and less strain on the battery.

News about Green Energy solar cells

Smart eco-solution for trailers and superstructures

Solar cells are not only a smart solution for powering on-board equipment for drivers, but can also play a significant role in providing power for the body or trailer. Think of powering the battery for fans, the battery of the tailgate or in electric cooling. Per Schmeltz (CSO at Green Energy) sees that continuity is an important factor for transporters. “We see many of our customers using our product to ensure operational reliability and, in combination, reduce the carbon footprint.”

Deploying solar cells for these energy needs achieves a direct reduction in CO2 emissions, but can also improve the immediate living environment in certain situations, as there is less nuisance from noise and exhaust emissions, for example.

New technology to suit use on trucks, semi-trailers and LCVs

The solar cells we are introducing on the Dutch and Belgian markets with Green Energy are completely different from the solutions with traditional solar panels known so far. For instance, the solar cells are only 3 millimetres thick and the cells are flexible. This ensures that the build-up height is minimal. In addition, the solar cells can also be installed on non-planar surfaces, such as the roof of a truck, and their flexibility means the panels are not susceptible to twisting of the surface on which they are mounted.

Finally, the solar cells come as a “plug and play” solution, making installation a breeze and connections safe and quality.

Read customer stories about Green Energy

Higher yields through MIPV technology

Unlike regular solar panels, Green Energy’s solar cells use MIPV (Mobile Integrated Photovoltaic) technology. This innovative technology also used in space travel uses the full light spectrum to generate energy. That is, the solar cells generate electricity even before the human eye perceives daylight. This means that, in practice, you are less affected by obstacles such as shade and rain than is the case with traditional solar panels.

Growth in Benelux

Per Schmeltz is pleased with this collaboration. “We are looking for strategic partners within Europe and beyond to introduce and implement our solar cells. Not only are we the market leader, but we also have the same ambition to help the transport sector reduce emissions. Together, we expect to make quite a few fleets more sustainable this year by deploying our solar cell technology.”

Not only sustainable, also financially interesting

Although in practice investing in solar cells usually arises from the need to be more sustainable in business, that need not be the only reason to install solar cells. Thus, the payback period of the panels is generally around 1.5 years and thus financially interesting. In addition, every transporter knows the problems that arise as a result of dead batteries. Those problems can be largely eliminated by using green energy through these solar cells.

Advantages Green Energy solar cell sets

  • Extension of vehicle battery runtime and service life through fewer charging cycles
  • Reduction of CO2 emissions (1 litre of diesel = 2.6 Kg CO2 )
  • Reducing fuel consumption
  • Sufficient power for the ever-growing group of secondary consumers such as laptop, coffee machine, air conditioners, TVs, lifting platforms, etc.
  • Greater range in electric/hybrid vehicles
  • In combination with an inverter, 230 V voltage is possible (available separately

Scope of delivery
plug & play sets

  • CIGS solar cells, 350 mm wide and available in 3 lengths, self-adhesive
  • Charge controller, 30 or 50 amps, Multi voltage 12V & 24V with intelligent charge control
  • PV cable with cable attachment parts
  • Waterproof circuit breaker 30 or 50 amps
  • Glue and sealant for cable routing
  • Battery cable