Renewable energy, energy efficiency, thermal insulation, solar energy or sustainability have become inter- national buzz words in the building world. Nowadays no building project can really get away without any concrete steps towards the reduction of CO2 emissions. Structural engineering as well has to come up with detailed proposals on how to increase the efficiency of buildings. Structural engineers take great influence on the economy of supporting structures and the reduction of materials, steps which all lead to a significant cut of CO2 emissions.
All around the world photovoltaic units are being installed not only on roofs but some of the most eco-nomical plants are built to a size which cover entire agricultural fields and former industrial sites. In that instance it is vital to design cost effective and durable frames for the photovoltaic modules. In order to guarantee best performance at any time and in any weather all year round a quick and easy assembly as well as a cheap maintenance and cleaning are paramount.
