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Description
In response to our customers’ demand and the availability of new technological solutions in balustrade design, Rapdach plans to develop and execute the design of movable and fixed outdoor photovoltaic balustrades.
The photovoltaic market is developing at a rapid pace. High customer awareness of the use of alternative energy sources and the falling costs of these technologies contribute to increased demand for solar energy production. Photovoltaic balustrades are complementary to the roof installations in the case of insufficient space for panels. It is an ideal solution for modern design construction. The target customers are both private persons (house owners) and public institutions, government agencies, cultural institutions, enterprises, developers.
A research unit carry out development works for Rapdach to elaborate technological and construction solutions for new balustrades. The project will also cover the construction of a production and storage hall with a photovoltaic roof installation, the purchase of production machines, and the registration of the industrial design prior to the balustrades market launch.
The new products will contribute to increased energy savings of our customers. Moving photovoltaic balustrades will allow for even more solar energy used in the photovoltaic field thanks to automatic balustrade unfolding mechanism (tilt). In addition, our company will reduce annual CO2 emissions by 60.25 tons and electricity consumption by 0.49 GWh. 10 new jobs will be created.
Summary of project results
The project aimed to address several key issues:
• Increasing the company''s competitiveness: Rapdach aimed to improve its market position by implementing innovative and environmentally friendly technologies. In the face of growing competition, investments in modern solutions were intended to enhance the attractiveness of the company''s offerings. As part of the project, two new products were developed: a fixed photovoltaic balustrade and a movable photovoltaic balustrade. By introducing these new products to the market, the company increased its competitiveness and expanded its customer base.
• Energy efficiency and CO2 emission reduction: The project responded to global environmental protection challenges. By implementing the photovoltaic system, the project contributed to reducing annual CO2 emissions by 60.25 tons and decreasing annual electricity consumption by 0.49 GWh. These measures aimed not only to reduce operational costs but also to improve Rapdach''s ecological footprint, which is a significant aspect in the context of sustainable development and corporate social responsibility.
• Innovations in the construction sector: The project aimed to introduce innovative products to the market in the form of photovoltaic balustrades, which are a novelty in the construction sector. Implementing these solutions was intended to meet the growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly construction solutions.
• Creation of new jobs: The project anticipated the creation of 10 new jobs, which aimed to stimulate the local labor market and support the economic development of the region.
The project encompassed a wide range of activities:
• Research and Development (R&D): The company collaborated with the AGH University of Science and Technology in Kraków, particularly with the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Robotics, to develop and test prototypes of photovoltaic balustrades. This research allowed for the analysis and verification of the construction quality, durability, and wear of prototype parts. Through these efforts, weak structural elements were eliminated, construction documentation was developed, and final prototypes were created.
• Construction of a production-warehouse-office hall: The project included the construction of a new hall, which was completed and accepted with a final acceptance protocol on September 29, 2022. This hall is equipped with a modern photovoltaic system, enhancing its energy efficiency and supporting the environmental goals of the project.
• Purchase of fixed assets: As part of the project, modern machines and equipment were purchased, including three specialized Iveco Daily vehicles for a total of PLN 1,038,120, a milling-copying machine for PLN 39,684.94, a crimping machine for aluminum corners for PLN 69,988.85, an aluminum cutting saw for PLN 187,371.57, and a PAJĄK+ assembly robot, manipulator, and basket lift for PLN 756,450.00. These investments were crucial for implementing innovative production processes and increasing the operational efficiency of the company.
• Promotional activities: To raise awareness about the project, the company organized opening and summary conferences, placed informational boards at the project site, created a website, and set up social media accounts. The project summary conference was held on March 25, 2024, with about 30 participants. These activities aimed to promote innovative solutions and inform a broad audience about the project''s achievements.
The project achieved the following results:
• Innovative solutions: Two new products were developed and implemented – fixed and movable photovoltaic balustrades. These innovative technological solutions were designed to increase the energy efficiency of buildings and meet the growing demand for eco-friendly construction products. These products have been showcased on the company''s website.
• Employment: The project contributed to the creation of 10 new jobs, positively impacting the local labor market. Specialists were hired for various positions, such as office worker, warehouse manager, IT specialist, sales representative, designer, and marketer, including both men and women. This increased the company''s production and operational capacity.
• Energy efficiency: By implementing the photovoltaic system, annual CO2 emissions were reduced by 60.25 tons, and annual electricity consumption was decreased by 0.49 GWh. These actions contributed to improving the company''s energy efficiency and reducing its environmental impact.
• Benefits for customers: The new products offered by Rapdach are targeted at various groups, including private individuals, public institutions, and development companies. The innovative photovoltaic balustrades help improve the energy efficiency of buildings and support environmental protection goals.
The beneficiaries of these actions are:
• Rapdach: Increased its market competitiveness and ability to introduce innovative technological solutions, leading to the long-term development of the company.
• Employees: The hired individuals gained stable employment and opportunities for professional development in an innovative company.
• Individuals across Poland: Customers of single-family homes.
• Developers in Poland: Companies focusing on eco-friendly innovative solutions.