The large-scale distributed photovoltaic power generation project located in Covestro Shanghai - Tihua Base has been officially launched recently, achieving full capacity grid connected power generation. It is worth mentioning that the project utilized innovative polyurethane composite materials developed by Covestro.
A major measure to implement the utilization of renewable energy.
The photovoltaic power generation project covers an area of 30000 square meters and covers the roofs, parking lots, and idle areas of the Shanghai base. The project was officially put into operation in late January 2024 and is expected to generate 6 million kilowatt hours of electricity annually for daily operation at the base. With the addition of existing photovoltaic facilities, the total annual photovoltaic power generation of the base will increase to 6.5 million kilowatt hours, which can reduce about 5000 tons of carbon emissions annually, equivalent to saving about 2000 tons of standard coal.
The new project demonstrates Covestro's firm determination to promote the utilization of renewable energy, which is an important measure for the company to achieve its vision of a circular economy. As the world's largest production base of Covestro, the Shanghai Integrated Base has accounted for over 40% of green electricity usage in 2023, based on multi-year power purchase agreements signed with suppliers such as CGN New Energy.
Polyurethane composite materials enhance the power generation efficiency of photovoltaic modules
The frame is one of the important auxiliary materials for solar photovoltaic modules, playing a key role in protecting glass edges, enhancing sealing performance, and improving overall mechanical strength. Some components in this photovoltaic power generation facility use polyurethane composite material frames from Covestro, demonstrating the company's efforts in utilizing material expertise to support green development in the photovoltaic industry.
The polyurethane composite material frame using resin exhibits excellent corrosion resistance, especially suitable for high humidity and high salt spray areas. As a non-metallic insulation material,
polyurethane composite material frames can reduce potential induced attenuation,
thereby improving the power generation efficiency of photovoltaic modules.
Carbon footprint is 85% lower than that of native aluminum profiles
In addition, the carbon footprint of polyurethane composite materials from cradle to gate is 85% lower than that of native aluminum profiles.
Traditional photovoltaic module frames are usually made of aluminum alloy, while the electrolytic aluminum industry is a major energy and carbon emitter.