Structurally integrated solar energy has become an attractive means to secure optimal thermal and visual indoor climate together with low energy consumption in both new and existing structures.

Since the 1980'ies, Esbensen has carried out a number of development and demonstration projects regarding integrated solar energy within domestic housing, industrial and institutional sector. Projects have included both new structures as well as renovation projects in Denmark and abroad.
Esbensen has also contributed to the development of a number of Danish and international publications regarding integrated solar energy.

Wide range of projects
In these projects, Esbensen has undertaken both the research and development as well as design and supervision tasks with Danish and international partners. Hereby, Esbensen has gained extensive knowledge concerning all elements of integrated solar energy in buildings, i.e. solar radiation, glass, cold bridges, heat transmission, sun spaces, solar panels, solar walls and solar power.
The actual design work is based upon an integrated energy process where the collectors are sought to be designed so that they have many functionalities, 'multiple purpose functionality', e.g. solar air collectors with absorbers made of photovoltaic panels providing heat, power and a building envelope all at the same time.
 
How we work
We assist in development projects being completed with an extensive measurement and evaluation project, focusing on user satisfaction as well as the functions of the building in relation to the expectations drawn up. Such tasks are often carried out in co-operation with a third party, e.g. the Danish Technological Institute, the Technical University of Denmark or Fraunhofer ISE. In this way we make sure that our consultancy services comply with both Danish and international standards and needs. Upon completion of the development projects it has appeared that the projects often have been able to be used as guidelines for future standards and building codes.

In order to obtain integrated energy design, Esbensen works closely together with both the authorities, clients, architects and other consultants all the way through from the idea phase to design and supervision. The design work is carried out by means of a number of computerised programs with different levels of detail. Early on in the design phase, simple tools based on ratios are implemented and as the task gets more complex, more specialised tools are used.
For very complex projects we can, if needed, receive technical assistance from our extensive network of specialised solar energy experts in Europe, Australia and the USA.

Esbensen prioritise creating an optimum cooperation among all parties involved, so that an integrated energy design is not at the expense of increased financial resources.