Long ago, few in the solar industry recall when unique solar modules were developed and manufactured in Paderborn. At the time, Biohaus PV Handels GmbH bonded Unisolar laminates, made in the USA, to roof membranes to create solar-active roofing membranes.
Were in great demand at the time
Although the amorphous silicon modules required significant space, their dual functionality made them appealing and, for a time, highly sought after. However, Unisolar and Biohaus PV Handel did not survive the crisis over a decade ago.
However, the Biohaus Foundation for Environment and Justice, established by Biohaus founder Willi Ernst, endured. The foundation supports projects in places like Haiti, where Unisolar modules provide electricity for the country’s only children’s hospital. Today, only residual stock remains in Paderborn.
Ukrainian solar company conquers the European market
Resourceful engineer builds solar sets
When Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine began, the Biohaus Foundation sent its remaining thin-film panels to the war zone. Anatolii Andreiev, a young Ukrainian engineer affiliated with the University of Paderborn, guided his colleagues at Kherson University on how to use the solar modules and arranged matching Victron charge controllers.
The sets proved highly effective for charging batteries used in radio and emergency medical equipment, prompting immediate requests for additional supplies from Paderborn. “Colleagues informed us during the last transport of relief supplies at the beginning of October that the blue panels are not recognised as power generators by Russian drones,” reports Anatolii Andreiev. “As a result, they are not targeted.”
Solar storage system for school in Chernihiv
Difficult to recognise as stealth modules
Against this backdrop, it was decided in Ukraine to supply the next solar sets not only to hospitals and children's homes but also to territorial defence military units. “So they have become almost the most sought-after of our relief supplies,” Andreiev explains. “We have been approached time and again about getting more of these camouflage modules.”
Unfortunately, the Biohaus Foundation's stocks are now depleted. “Therefore, we would like to ask the solar community if there are any remaining stocks of Unisolar laminates or Biohaus PV membranes to be found somewhere,” Willi Ernst appeals. “After all, we know that some systems have been dismantled and replaced by more powerful modules. Surely one or the other solar company still has such modules stored and is willing to have them collected at our expense.”
Individuals or organisations able to provide the described “blue mats” are encouraged to contact Willi Ernst at: info@biohaus-stiftung.org. (mfo)
