SABIC Leads the Curve with First Polycarbonate BIPV Panels Featuring Design Flexibility, Thermal Insulation & Energy Production in One Solution

Published Jun 13, 2012

MUNICH, Germany — June 13, 2012 — With approximately 70 gigawatts (GW) of cumulative global installations, PV systems represent the third most important renewable energy source – after hydroelectric and wind power – in terms of capacity. 1 As demand for solar power rises, SABIC is helping to drive the feasibility and integration of this increasingly preferred energy source by launching today the first polycarbonate (PC) building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) panels for roofing, cladding and glazing applications. This new innovative solution from SABIC’s Innovative Plastics business, called Lexan* BIPV panel, provides architects and builders with enhanced design freedom, thermal insulation, easy installation and energy production in a single, integrated solution. Created through a close collaboration between SABIC and Solbian Energie Alternative, an innovative flexible photovoltaic (PV) production company, Lexan BIPV panels combine tough, lightweight, transparent Lexan Thermoclear* PC sheet with flexible PV laminated crystalline cells from Solbian and are available in a broad range of structures, configurations and colors. Lexan BIPV panels demonstrate SABIC’s deep commitment to its customers by supporting the evolving trends and environmental needs for more sustainable designs while driving improved material technologies in the building and construction industry.