Sustainability

Concern for sustainability and the environment has already led to many innovative and sustainable solutions, even in the area of electrical engineering. Examples include solar panels, reductions in lighting costs, PV systems, lighting systems (daylight controls, motion sensors) and charging stations for electric cars. These developments are beneficial for our environment but also lead to considerable cost savings.

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Sustainability refers to the process of making a building, organization, product, or process more environmentally friendly to reduce its negative impact on the environment and minimize its ecological footprint. The goal of sustainability is to use natural resources more efficiently, lower energy consumption, and contribute to a cleaner and healthier living environment. This applies to homes, businesses, and large-scale industrial and societal initiatives.

We support this by providing various sustainable installations, including:

  • Charging stations
  • Solar panels
  • Smart meters
  • (Home) batteries and energy storage
  • Smart building solutions
  • Sustainable lighting

Solar Panels

To generate renewable energy, we use solar panels. These panels produce sustainable energy, which can be used for everyday electricity consumption in your home or building.

4 Types of Solar Panels

There are different types of solar panels, each with unique technologies and benefits:

1. Monocrystalline Solar Panels
Made from a single-crystal silicon structure. Generally more efficient, meaning they generate more energy from the same surface area. Typically more expensive than other types.

2. Polycrystalline Solar Panels
Made from multiple silicon crystals. Slightly less efficient than monocrystalline panels but more affordable. Recognizable by their blue color and less uniform appearance.

3. Thin-Film Solar Panels
Thinner and more flexible than crystalline panels. Can be applied to various surfaces, such as roofing materials or windows. Typically less efficient and have a shorter lifespan.

4. Solar Panels
Absorb sunlight on both the front and back sides. More efficient, especially when placed on reflective surfaces (e.g., white roofs or sandy grounds).

Benefits of Solar Panels

  • Sustainability: Solar panels help reduce CO₂ emissions, contributing to the fight against climate change. They utilize renewable energy sources without producing harmful byproducts like fossil fuels.

  • Cost Savings: While the initial purchase and installation costs can be high, solar panels offer long-term savings on energy expenses. In some cases, you may even sell excess electricity back to the grid (depending on local laws and regulations).

  • Energy Independence: Solar panels allow you to generate part or all of your energy needs, reducing reliance on energy suppliers and shielding you from fluctuations in electricity prices.

EV Charger

An EV charger (Electric Vehicle charger) is a device used to charge an electric vehicle (EV). As EVs become increasingly popular, it’s essential to understand how EV chargers work, the different types available, and how to install one. Below, we provide a comprehensive overview of everything you need to know about EV chargers.

Types of EV Chargers

EV chargers are classified into three main types based on charging speed and connection type. They are commonly divided into AC chargers (Alternating Current) and DC chargers (Direct Current).

 

1. Type 1 (AC Charger)

  • Charging speed: Slow. This is the standard home charging option, typically offering 2.3 kW to 3.7 kW.
  • Connection: Uses a standard household socket (230V), though some EVs require specific adapters.
  • Use case: Mainly for slow home charging, especially for older EV models. Charging times are longer compared to other types.

2. Type 2 (AC Charger)

  • Charging speed: Moderate. The most common charger in Europe, supporting 3.7 kW to 22 kW, depending on the charger and vehicle.
  • Connection: Type 2 is the standard connector for public charging stations and many home chargers. Allows for faster charging than Type 1.
  • Use case: Frequently used for home charging stations and public charging points, supporting both single-phase and three-phase systems.

3. Fast Charger (DC Charger)

  • Charging speed: Very fast. These chargers range from 50 kW to 350 kW or more, ideal for quick charging during travel.
  • Connection: Uses direct current (DC) and often has a different plug type than standard AC chargers. Common fast-charging standards include CHAdeMO, CCS (Combined Charging System), and Tesla Superchargers (for Tesla vehicles).
  • Use case: Primarily found at highway rest stops or dedicated fast-charging stations. Can charge an EV in approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the charger’s power and the vehicle’s battery capacity.

Home Charging vs. Public Charging

Home Charging

  • Many EV owners prefer to charge their vehicles at home using a Type 2 charger connected to a three-phase power outlet for faster charging.

  • Home charging stations are relatively easy to install, allowing users to set their own charging schedules and control costs.
Public Charging
  • Public charging stations are available in many cities and along highways. These vary from slower AC chargers to ultra-fast DC chargers.
  • Often requires a charging card or mobile app to access.

Choosing the Right EV Charger

When selecting an EV charger, consider the following factors:

  • Charging Speed: How quickly can the charger replenish your vehicle's battery? This depends on the charger's power and the EV's battery capacity.
  • Connector Type: Ensure the charger is compatible with your vehicle’s charging port (e.g., Type 1, Type 2, or fast-charging connectors like CCS or CHAdeMO).
  • Smart Chargers: Many modern EV chargers offer smart functionalities via a mobile app, such as:
    • Charging Schedules: Set specific charging times (e.g., during off-peak hours for lower electricity rates).
    • Energy Management: Optimize energy consumption for efficient charging.
  • Safety Features: A high-quality EV charger should include safety mechanisms like residual current devices (RCDs) and overheating protection to prevent hazards.
  • Installation & Costs: Installation costs depend on electrical system requirements (e.g., whether an additional power connection is needed) and the type of charger selected. Some governments offer subsidies or tax incentives for EV charger installations.

Your Sustainability Partner

With a team of specialists and years of experience, we can accurately assess your sustainability needs and requirements. By calculating factors such as energy consumption, we provide the best-suited solutions. Through the installation of high-quality sustainable systems, we make a real contribution to your sustainability goals.

Sustainability starts with Van der Leun Electrobouw.
Have a sustainability question? Contact our specialists at electrobouw@royalvanderleun.com or call +31 184-430560.