With interest in electric vehicles and solar power is on a rise, Michigan-based Duo-Gard Industries decided to develop a new sort of solar-powered charging stations for cars, bikes, scooters, carts and motorcycles. The company’s new line of solar stations includes standard and custom models.
Duo-Gard’s solar-powered stations feature a turnkey approach that includes in-house design, engineering, fabrication and installation services, as well as technical support to specify, plus field support on photovoltaics, inverters and metering required to connect to the grid.
The structure’s canopy of solar panels is engineered with continuous components, completely sealed against rain and snow. “We use our standard canopy structural and weatherproofing details to create a weather-tight structure engineered for all climates,” said Michael Arvidson, executive vice president.
Architectural aesthetics is also a key aspect. “Our in-house capabilities in steel fabrication allow us to offer designers the distinctive custom look and features communities want today. Our stations combine aesthetics, engineering and value with a sustainable strategy,” he added.
The stations can be engineered to provide free services or to function with machines for payments, including credit cards, creating a profit center that would help recoup the initial investment. These solar stations are net zero energy structures, producing power that can be both used and stored.
According to Arvidson, inquiries and discussions at Greenbuild last November encouraged the company to push development of the solar stations. “We’re excited to bring the market some distinct advantages that haven’t been readily available until now,” he said.
The company is known for innovation in sustainable products consistent with LEED compliance. This includes a line of bike shelters introduced last year to support alternative transportation.
