FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where is Onyx Solar located?
Our offices are situated in Ávila, Spain, and New York, USA. We operate our manufacturing from our factory in Ávila, Spain.
Feel welcome to visit our facilities; please contact us to arrange a tour at your convenience.
What is Onyx Solar's photovoltaic glass?
Onyx Solar's photovoltaic glass is a building material that integrates photovoltaic cells within glass panels, allowing buildings to generate renewable energy while maintaining the structural and aesthetic properties of conventional glass.
What is BIPV glass?
“BIPV” stands for “Building integrated Photovoltaic”, so BIPV glass is a photovoltaic glass integrated into a building.
What types of photovoltaic technologies does Onyx Solar offer?
Onyx Solar provides a diverse range of photovoltaic technologies to meet varying needs and performance criteria. Our offerings include:
- Crystalline Silicon: Known for high peak power and efficiency.
- Amorphous Silicon: Offers flexibility and lower cost.
- Bifacial Crystalline Silicon Cells: Generates energy from both sides for enhanced performance.
Each technology is designed to optimize energy production based on specific application requirements.
What are the size and customization options for Onyx Solar's photovoltaic glass?
Onyx Solar's photovoltaic (PV) glass offers extensive customization to meet diverse project needs. Our photovoltaic glass can be tailored in size, shape, thickness, color, and transparency. The maximum size available is 4000 mm x 2000 mm, and we can adjust dimensions and specifications to fit specific project requirements.
Our R&D team has developed a broad spectrum of color options using both amorphous silicon (a-Si) and crystalline silicon (c-Si) technologies. For more information on color choices see our Colored Photovoltaic Glass section.
Additionally, we offer Insulated Glass Units (IGUs), which can be customized with either air or argon fillings to meet precise U-value requirements.
How does the photovoltaic glass balance energy production and transparency?
The energy production and transparency of photovoltaic glass are balanced by adjusting the density of solar cells within the glass. Higher cell density increases energy output but reduces transparency, while lower density allows more natural light to pass through.
How can I use the generated energy?
You can choose from three main options:
- Direct Use: Connect to your building’s grid for immediate use.
- Grid Feed: Supply energy to the utility grid.
- Storage: Store energy in batteries for later use.
- Inverters convert direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC). Standard inverters for traditional PV systems can be used. Ensure the inverter is sized for your total power needs.
Regulations differ by country. Review local rules before planning your installation. For details, see our BIPV Installation Guide.
What are the insulation properties of photovoltaic glass?
Onyx Solar’s glass offers excellent thermal performance with U-values as low as 0.7 W/m²K, helping buildings become more energy-efficient and reducing heating and cooling costs.
How does photovoltaic glass contribute to indoor comfort?
Photovoltaic glass not only generates energy but also provides excellent thermal and acoustic insulation. It filters harmful ultraviolet and infrared radiation, contributing to a more comfortable indoor environment.
Can Onyx Solar's photovoltaic glass be used in renovation projects?
Yes, Onyx Solar's photovoltaic glass is suitable for both new constructions and renovations. It can replace conventional glass in existing buildings, adding energy generation capabilities without compromising design.
What are the maintenance requirements for photovoltaic glass?
Photovoltaic glass requires minimal maintenance, similar to conventional glass. Regular cleaning is recommended to ensure maximum energy efficiency and to maintain its aesthetic appeal.
For preventive maintenance and cleaning, please check our Product Manual.
Will the wires and junction boxes be seen?
Junction boxes and wires are mandatory in order to harvest the produced energy. Junction boxes can be hidden in special fixation system or can be seen. Wires can also be hidden inside the structure of the solution.
What is the energy payback time for Onyx Solar's photovoltaic glass?
The average energy payback time for our photovoltaic glass is under two years. This means that the glass will generate enough energy in approximately two years to offset the energy used in its production.
What is the return on investment (ROI) for photovoltaic glass installations?
The average payback time is around four years, with annual returns on investment (ROI) of up to 20%. This makes photovoltaic glass a cost-effective solution for energy generation.
What safety standards does photovoltaic glass meet?
Onyx Solar's photovoltaic glass is classified as Class A for fire resistance, ensuring it is non-flammable and ideal for construction projects. It meets high safety and performance standards required for building materials.
Are there any certifications for Onyx Solar's products?
Yes, Onyx Solar’s products have received various certifications, including Global EPD, and have been recognized with numerous awards for innovation and sustainability.