Solar-supported heating networks in multi-storey residential buildings

Architecture and aesthetics
Until recently, the topic of solar energy systems was primarily addressed by energy engineers, who
did not always manage to make people sufficiently aware of the many ways systems could be
integrated into buildings. A glance at the technological development of solar energy systems over the
past few years shows, however, that the most innovative developments occurred in the field of
structural integration. The structural integration of solar energy systems now covers a broad spectrum
of possibilities that can range from completely unnoticeable installations to elements that contribute to
the building’s overall design. Assimilation with the building’s envelope (roof and facade integration),
flexible building designs, prefabricated unit construction and flexible colour scheme are a few
examples of what is understood by the term structural integration today.
Energy efficiency
Solar energy systems generate heat and should therefore be constructed in such a way that they can
operate at top performance. This should also apply to structural integration (inclination, direction and
shade-coverage of the collectors). Numerous studies over the past several years have shown that
tolerances in the case of deviations from the energetic optimum frequently result in only minor
reductions in output and therefore do not pose a risk to profitable operation. To ensure that solar
energy systems can be introduced on a broad front, energy engineers should take advantage of this
considerable leeway and work together with the architects and clients to exploit the repertoire of
modern structural integration.
Economic efficiency
To ensure that investment costs can be reduced by the maximum amount, all potential synergies have
to be exploited. In the case of the innovative structural integration of collectors, this means that areas
should be put to double use, for example by aiming to achieve savings in conventional surfaces,
component layers, supporting structures, shading facilities etc. In addition, this could also reduce
transmission heat losses and the amount of assembly work required.
6.1
Roof integration of solar collectors
The most common form of structural integration for solar collectors is roof integration. It involves
mounting the collector on top of the existing supporting structure so that the collector also provides
protection from the elements. Assembly with the help of cranes is the standard method used for
industrially manufactured large-area collectors (Figure 20). In some projects, prefabrication and cost
reductions have already been made to the extent that roofing elements assembled at the plant
(consisting of supporting structures, heat insulation and collector) only have to be moved to their
proper location at the construction site (Figure 21). The hydraulic connection of the individual largearea
collectors and the installation of the main lines are carried out in the attic, which is protected
against the weather.
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