Spanish BIPV manufacturer Onyx Solar has launched innovative walkable solar floor tiles, designed for rooftops, patios, sidewalks, and other urban applications. These glass-glass modules have a nominal capacity of 75 W and are crafted for both functionality and durability.
The tiles, weighing 23 kg each and measuring 75 x 75 cm, can be customized up to 4m x 2m. Made with 8 mm thick safety glass and an anti-slip surface, they are intended for pedestrian traffic and can bear up to 400 kg/m². The patented design complies with IEC and UL standards, including UL410 for slip resistance.
Featuring 16 multicrystalline silicon cells with a five-busbar layout encapsulated in EVA foil, the panels integrate seamlessly with raised-access floor systems. Electrical interconnections are handled through the backside, with system selection left to clients or design teams.
Onyx Solar’s walkable PV tiles have been used in prominent projects, including Apple facilities in the United States, Valencia’s City of Arts and Science, and Madrid’s Royal Theater. In New York City, the tiles have been installed in private residences and developments, aiding real estate owners in generating renewable energy onsite without sacrificing usable space.
One notable project at 625 Avenue of the Americas showcases PV tiles integrated into an Ipé hardwood grid frame, in collaboration with Solardeck, a local solar installation firm. The tiles also align with NYC’s Local Laws 92/94, promoting green roofs and solar installations on specific buildings.
These versatile PV tiles present a sustainable solution for developers and urban planners, combining energy efficiency with innovative design.