Product profile: Flexible solar laminates

Most roof-mounted solar panels are rigid, framed panels, but this has some disadvantages—they protrude from the roof, which increases wind loads, the mounting systems add considerably to the cost, and they may be aesthetically unappealing.

The Flex series of flexible solar laminates from MiaSolé (owned by solar giant Hanergy) are designed to stick directly to suitable roofing profiles (such as standing seam roof sheets), eliminating mounting systems and roof penetrations from screws. The modules are based on CIGS (copper indium gallium selenide) cells and have efficiencies as high as many crystalline silicon panels.

There are two models in the Flex range, each available in several power outputs. The FLEX-02N measures 2598 mm x 370 mm, with power outputs ranging from 110 W to 130 W, while the FLEX-02NL measures 5923 mm x 370 mm and can produce from 265 W to 305 W, depending on the version. Thickness for both models is just 17 mm at the junction box, and the laminate itself is 2.5 mm thick with adhesive or just 1.5 mm without. The modules weigh under 3 kg per square metre and come with a five-year product and 10/25-year power output warranty.