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RENEWABLE TECHNOLOGY


Fibox polycarbonate electrical enclosures in renewable energy technology: The sustainable choice


Fibox, a company that continually pushes the boundaries of environmental responsibility, explains


why polycarbonate is the sustainable choice for enclosures used within the renewable energy industry


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haracterised by its dedication to the development of non-polluting, inexhaustible energy sources, the renewable energy sector distances itself from the consumption of fossil fuels – instead, introducing viable alternative technologies such as: solar panels, wind turbines and air source heat pumps. Ultimately, the renewable energy sector seeks to lead the world to a more environmentally cautious energy model. On a global scale, it’s obvious that we need to


switch to renewable energy. Almost all countries have made ambitious commitments to increase their share of renewables in their energy mix. Their motivations include the imperatives of the climate change crisis, the attractive economics of renewable technologies and the fear of being subject to outside control of energy supplies. The reducing costs, too, are making renewables


more accessible: Figures published on the Statista website indicate that the global installed renewable energy capacity reached 3.9 terawatts in 2023, an increase of 14% on 2022. The renewable energy industry is leading the change towards a safer, sustainable, and more just energy future for the world. As costs decline and technologies improve, the prospects for renewable energy to power the world expand along with the promise that massive decarbonisation can jointly promote the goals of mitigating climate change and stimulating global economic development.


A SUSTAINABLE CHOICE - POLYCARBONATE The energy sector is increasingly driven by renewables which strive not only to harvest sunlight, wind and ambient air temperatures, but also to instil sustainability into every part of its infrastructure. As a result, electrical enclosures are coming under greater scrutiny when it comes to materials. The greater recyclability of thermoplastics – such as polycarbonate – serves the sector well, not least because the manufacturer of polycarbonate electrical enclosures, Fibox, continually pushes the boundaries of environmental responsibility. Polycarbonate electrical enclosures offer distinct advantages within solar energy, wind energy, and air source heat pump systems. Their exceptional durability, resistance to UV radiation, and high impact strength ensure reliable protection in harsh environmental conditions often faced by renewable energy installations. Crucially, the 100% recyclability


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of polycarbonate aligns with the renewable sector’s goals of minimising environmental impact and promoting circular economy principles. Unlike electrical enclosures made from polyester


or steel, polycarbonate housings champion a lifecycle characterised by full recyclability. Polyester, though lightweight and corrosion-resistant, is not generally recycled, often ending up in landfills. Steel, while recyclable, requires high energy input for both its production and recycling processes, somewhat detracting from its environmental efficiency. Polycarbonate, in contrast, presents a more sustainable option by contributing less waste and requiring less energy over its lifecycle. More recently, achieving the Ecovadis Bronze


dedication to creating products that are energy- efficient, robust, and capable of withstanding the rigors of outdoor environments. The Fibox ARCA polycarbonate cabinet enclosure range features on their website and may be purchased direct. The use of polycarbonate in electrical enclosures


Meter housed in Fibox ARCA polycarbonate cabinet


award highlighted the increased commitment by Fibox to raise ESG standards throughout its organisation including the manufacture of polycarbonate electrical enclosures. The further development of renewable energy infrastructure components towards increased ESG compliance will become increasingly important in the application of polycarbonate. Essentially, CE-compliant polycarbonate products will effectively bring sustainability ‘in from the cold’ and put the promise of sustainability that underpins renewable energy initiatives where it ought to be, at the heart of their design.


ENHANCING SOLAR SOLUTIONS At the forefront of renewable energy innovation, the technology solutions company and OEM service provider PAD Technology has strategically incorporated Fibox polycarbonate electrical enclosures into its renewable energy product designs. This decision underscores the company’s


brings a multitude of benefits to renewable energy applications. The engineering team at PAD Technology carefully considers factors such as UV resistance, thermal stability, and mechanical strength when selecting materials for their renewable energy products. Polycarbonate’s excellent UV resistance preserves the enclosure’s integrity and appearance over time, while its high thermal stability ensures performance under varying temperatures. Additionally, the material’s impact resistance is crucial for protecting sensitive electrical components from physical damage. By integrating the Fibox ARCA polycarbonate cabinet series, PAD Technology effectively addresses the unique challenges of renewable energy product design, ensuring that their solutions are not only efficient but also durable and secure. The adoption by PAD Technology of Fibox


polycarbonate electrical enclosures testifies to their commitment to quality and innovation in the renewables industry. Through thoughtful design and engineering, the company maximises the potential of its renewables products, ensuring they meet the highest standards of durability and performance.


Fibox T: 01642 604400


salesuk@fibox.com www.padtechnology.co.uk


ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY SOLUTIONS - Summer 2024 13 www.fibox.com


OverVoltage protection housed in Fibox ARCA polycarbonate cabinet


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