Cool Roofs and Solar Panels: A Dynamic Duo for Energy Efficiency
In the heart of Tuas, a silent revolution is underway—one that involves harnessing the power of the sun to drive energy efficiency. As part of their commitment to sustainability, the company has embarked on a project to install solar panels on their factory rooftop. But before they could soak up the sun's rays, a crucial step was needed: ensuring their roof was up to the task.
The factory roof, a sturdy metal structure painted a deep brown, was not only showing signs of wear but also posed a challenge for the solar panels. Dark colours absorb heat, and this heat can seep into the factory, making it uncomfortably warm and increasing the need for air conditioning. To address this, the factory turned to a novel solution: ENVI-Gel 365, an insulating paint developed by Envicom.
The application of ENVI-Gel 365 proved to be transformative. Before the paint, the roof temperature hovered around a sweltering 50 to 53 degrees Celsius. However, after just two coats of ENVI-Gel 365, the temperature dropped by a refreshing 10 degrees Celsius, creating a cooler environment both inside and outside the factory.
This reduction in temperature not only benefits the factory workers, providing them with a more comfortable working environment, but also enhances the performance of the solar panels. Solar panels are more efficient in cooler temperatures, and by keeping the roof temperature down, ENVI-Gel 365 ensures that the panels can operate at their peak efficiency.
But the benefits don't stop there. By reducing the heat absorbed by the roof, the need for air conditioning is also reduced.
This translates to lower energy costs, with estimated savings of $262 per year for a 200 sq ft air-conditioned area, as well as carbon emissions avoidance of 350 kgCO2 per year.
To ensure the credibility of these findings, Sustinere, an independent advisory firm providing sustainability-related services, was engaged by Envicom. Sustinere assessed the information provided by Envicom and provided a statement on the outcome of the study, adding an extra layer of assurance to the project's success.
The combination of solar panels, ENVI-Gel 365, and the expertise of Sustinere is a shining example of how innovative solutions and independent verification can drive energy efficiency. Not only does it help to reduce energy costs and carbon emissions, but it also creates a more comfortable and sustainable working environment. As more companies embrace such solutions, we move one step closer to a greener, more sustainable future.