Engie and Heliatek install world's largest organic PV rooftop
French energy firm Engie and solar equipment provider Heliatek have completed the world's biggest building-integrated organic photovoltaic (BiOPV) installation, on the rooftop of the Pierre Mendes France school in La Rochelle. The school's rooftop has been equipped with 500 sq metres of solar film, and has a capacity of 22.5 kWp. The installation should generate approximately 23.8 MWh annually for the school, providing 15% to 20% of its total energy needs. The pilot will help to develop further larger-scale installations for the technology, which provides a lighter alternative to solar panels.
French energy group Engie (EPA:ENGI) and Heliatek GmbH on Wednesday announced the inauguration of what is described as the world's largest building integrated organic photovoltaic (BiOPV) installation on a roof.

The roof of the Pierre Mendes France middle school in La Rochelle, France was covered with 500 sq m (5,382 sq ft) of Heliatek's solar films. The project was carried out in response to a call for tenders by the Charente-Maritime Department, Engie, which has been an investor in Heliatek since 2016, explained.

With a capacity of 22.5 kWp, the system will produce about 23.8 MWh per year, which will be used directly by the school, covering 15%-20% of its electricity demand.

The aim of the pilot project is to open the way in the longer term to large-scale development of the technology, Engie said. OPV films are suitable for lightweight roofs, which can not support conventional solar panels. Their advantages include fast installation, no need for piercing the roof and being easy to recycle.

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