In 2022, 8,700,000 square meters of roof surfaces were greened in Germany, establishing Germany as one of the world leaders in the installation of green roofs and, according to the German Green Roof and Living Wall Association, showing impressive growth of 141% between 2008 and 2022. The association describes the increasing demand for solar green roofs as one of the most important industry trends.
The integration of photovoltaic systems on green roofs avoids an "either or" situation and utilizes the advantages of both systems. Especially as, according to a recent study, the output of PV systems can increase by up to 8% if they are installed on green roofs. According to the study, this is achieved by a cooling effect due to transpiration and evaporation by the plants, as well as their ability to absorb dust. The experts see a further influencing factor in the diffuse reflection of sunlight by the foliage.
K2 Systems already has various solutions for green roofs in its portfolio: these range from the K2 Dome systems to the flexible K2 Triangle/MultiAngle system and K2 TiltUp Vento.
K2 GreenRoof Vento now offers an optimized solution for overcoming the challenges of installing photovoltaic systems on green roofs, which are "keeping plants at a distance" but at the same time "allowing them to thrive".
For example, the K2 development team took care to minimize disruption to the greenery with small feet so that even low-growing mosses and succulents continue to receive light and water. At the same time, the system naturally guarantees a firm stand and is statically optimized. The greater distance between the module and the roof prevents the modules from being shaded by excessive vegetation.
The option of arranging modules in portrait and landscape with an elevation angle of either 10 or 15 degrees offers planners and installers a versatile solution for various construction projects. The maximum module size that can be mounted with K2 GreenRoof Vento is 2,400 mm x 1,350 mm.
"By expanding our portfolio with K2 GreenRoof Vento, we are delighted to be able to offer an innovative solution that simplifies the planning and installation of green roof projects while maximizing the efficiency of photovoltaic systems," explains Katharina David, Co-CEO at K2 Systems.
