Multi-functional solar powered barrier walls and their financing methods

Abstract

Multi-functional barrier walls equipped with solar panels, Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) and/or wind turbines along liner boundaries, farmlands, fire zones, highways, railroads, liner terrains or linearly configured spaces to produce electricity from solar and wind energy. The barrier walls may be used as boundary walls, security barriers, sound attenuating barriers, fire barriers, wind barriers or dust barriers. A method of financing the said barrier walls by the electricity produced by the said solar panels, said Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) and/or wind turbines.

Claims

1. A solar panels or Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) equipped inclined barrier wall along linear boundaries, highways, railroads, farmlands, fire zones, linear terrains or linearly configured spaces to produce electricity from said solar panels or said Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) comprising: plurality of inclined structural framing members made of precast concrete, structural steel or rigid composite material; the said inclined structural framing members being inclined at a predetermined angle for maximum solar exposure based on the geographic location of the said inclined barrier wall; plurality of lateral bracing members and cross bracing members supporting the said inclined structural framing members with structural connections to form a framework for the said inclined barrier wall; the said inclined structural framing members, said lateral bracing members, said cross bracing members, said solar panels and said Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) being modular with predetermined sizes that can be readily assembled on site; plurality of said solar panels installed over metallic runners or rigid panels supported by said inclined structural framing members and said cross bracing members; or said Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) installed directly over said inclined structural framing members and said cross bracing members; wherein the said solar panels or said Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) form the active part of said inclined barrier wall to generate electricity from solar energy.

2. The inclined barrier wall of claim 1 wherein plurality of wind turbines are installed in one or more rows along said inclined barrier wall to produce electricity from wind power supplementing the electricity produced by the said solar panels or said Structural Solar Panels (SSPs).

3. The inclined barrier wall of claim 1 wherein the said solar panels are backed by rigid panels, sound attenuating panels, fire resistive panels or sandwich-structured composite panels for configuring the said inclined barrier wall to function like a security barrier, sound attenuating barrier, fire barrier or a wind/dust barrier respectively.

4. The barrier wall of claim 1 wherein the electricity produced by said solar panels or said Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) is used to power lights and/or intrusion detection sensors placed along said inclined barrier wall, the said electricity being backed by electricity storage batteries and/or utility grid.

5. The inclined barrier wall of claim 1 wherein the space underneath the said inclined barrier wall is made usable for warehouses, storage facilities, services centers, retail, utilities and/or animal shelters by enclosing the said space with weather resistant partitions.

6. The inclined barrier wall of claim 1 wherein the said inclined barrier wall is used as a boundary wall to protect properties, farmlands, estates and countries while producing electricity from solar energy.

7. The inclined barrier wall of claim 1 wherein the said inclined barrier wall is used as a sound attenuating barrier along roads and highways to protect adjacent communities from highway noise while producing electricity from solar energy.

8. The inclined barrier wall of claim 1 wherein the said inclined barrier wall is used along highways to power electric vehicles along said highways.

9. The inclined barrier wall of claim 1 wherein the said inclined barrier wall is used along farmlands and the electricity produced by the said barrier wall is used to irrigate said farmlands.

10. The inclined barrier wall of claim 1 wherein the said inclined barrier wall is used as a fire barrier and the electricity produced by the said barrier wall is used to pump portable water into overhead water storage tanks which can be used to fight wild fires.

11. The inclined barrier wall of claim 1 wherein the projected future revenue from the sale of electricity produced by solar panels or Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) mounted over said inclined barrier wall is used as leverage to secure loans for the construction of said barrier wall, and the revenue generated by the sale of said electricity is used to pay back said loans.

12. A solar panels or Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) equipped inclined canopy or cantilevered structure along linear boundaries, highways, railroads, farmlands, linear terrains or linearly configured spaces to produce electricity from said solar panels or said Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) comprising: plurality of vertical structural framing members or plurality of vertical rigid panels structurally connected with each other at predetermined intervals forming a vertical structure; plurality of inclined structural framing members or plurality of inclined rigid panels structurally connected to said vertical structural framing members or said vertical rigid panels forming an inclined canopy or an inclined cantilever; the inclination angle of said inclined canopy or said inclined cantilever being predetermined for maximum solar exposure based on the geographic location of the said canopy or cantilevered structure; said vertical structural framing members, said vertical rigid panels, said inclined structural framing members and said inclined rigid panels being made of precast concrete, structural steel or a rigid composite material; said vertical structural framing members, said vertical rigid panels, said inclined structural framing members and said inclined rigid panels being modular with predetermined sizes that can be readily assembled on site; plurality of said solar panels or said Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) installed over the inclined portion of said canopy or said cantilevered structure; wherein the said solar panels or said Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) form the active part of said inclined canopy or said cantilevered structure to generate electricity from solar energy.

13. The inclined canopy or inclined cantilevered structure of claim 12 wherein the projected future revenue from the sale of electricity produced by solar panels or Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) mounted over said inclined canopy or said inclined cantilevered structure is used as leverage to secure loans for said inclined canopy or said inclined cantilevered structure, and the revenue generated by the sale of said electricity is used to pay back said loans.

14. A Structural Solar Panel (SSP) assembly having structural integrity to span between engineered structural framing members at predetermined distances and having the ability to produce electricity from solar energy using solar cells integrated into the said Structural Solar Panel (SSP) assembly comprising: a structural assembly comprising a sandwich-structured composite having a structural hollow core, a rigid outer skin, a rigid inner skin and a perimeter frame; or the said structural assembly formed like a Structural Insulated Panel (SIP) with a rigid outer skin, a rigid inner skin and a core of infill material having predetermined properties such as sound attenuation, fire resistance or insulation; plurality of solar cells attached to or directly manufactured over the said rigid outer skin; a clear protective membrane covering the said solar cells; a perimeter frame and/or channel guards encasing the said protective membrane, said solar cells and said structural assembly; the said Structural Solar Panel (SSP) assembly being factory manufactured as an integrated unit with wiring connections that enable to connect a plurality of said Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) to form a solar array; wherein the said solar cells form the active part of the said Structural Solar Panel (SSP) assembly to produce electricity from solar energy.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING

[0013] FIG. 1: 3D view of one embodiment of the invention

[0014] FIG. 2: Sectional view of the embodiment of the invention disclosed in FIG. 1

[0015] FIG. 2a: Detailed sectional view of FIG. 2

[0016] FIG. 3: 3D view of one embodiment of the invention

[0017] FIG. 4: 3D view of one embodiment of the invention

[0018] FIG. 5: Sectional view of the embodiment of the invention disclosed in FIG. 4

[0019] FIG. 6: 3D view of one embodiment of the invention

[0020] FIG. 7: Sectional view of the embodiment of the invention disclosed in FIG. 6

[0021] FIG. 8a: Flow diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the invention

[0022] FIG. 8b: Flow diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the invention

[0023] FIG. 9a: 3D view of one embodiment of the invention

[0024] FIG. 9b: 3D view of one embodiment of the invention

[0025] FIG. 10: 3D view of one embodiment of the invention

[0026] FIG. 11: A 3D view of the embodiment disclosed in FIG. 10

[0027] FIG. 12: 3D view of one embodiment of the invention

[0028] FIG. 13: 3D view of one embodiment of the invention

[0029] FIG. 14: A 3D view of the embodiment disclosed in FIG. 13

[0030] FIG. 15: Sectional view of Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) 1000 shown in FIGS. 13 and 14

[0031] FIG. 15a: Detailed sectional view of Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) 1000 shown in FIG. 15

[0032] FIG. 16: A 3D view of the embodiment of the invention disclosed in FIGS. 13 and 14

[0033] FIG. 17: 3D view of one embodiment of the invention

[0034] FIG. 18: A 3D view of one embodiment of the invention disclosed in FIG. 17

[0035] FIG. 19: A sectional view of one embodiment of the invention disclosed in FIG. 17

[0036] FIG. 20: 3D view of one embodiment of the invention

[0037] FIG. 21: A 3D view of one embodiment of the invention disclosed in FIG. 20

[0038] FIG. 22: Sectional view of one embodiment of the invention

[0039] FIG. 23: Sectional view of one embodiment of the invention

[0040] FIG. 24: An overall sectional view of the embodiment disclosed in FIG. 23

[0041] FIG. 25: An exemplary site plan showing embodiments disclosed in FIGS. 23 and 24

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0042] The following are exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The terminology to describe various assemblies and components is generally used in a broader sense; variations in terminology may exist to denote like or similar components in different embodiments of the invention. For clarity, like elements in drawings are generally labeled only once. Alternative terms are used to broaden the understanding; overlaps in terminology may exist. For example the terms frames and framing members are interchangeable. The term solar panel(s) is used to indicate any devices capable of converting solar energy into electricity such as: photovoltaic cell, solar films, solar paint, thermal cells or receptors, crystalline silicon, monocrystalline, polycrystalline, thin film amorphous silicon (a-Si), cadmium telluride (CdTe), copper indium gallium selenide (CIS/CIGS), organic photovoltaic cells (OPC) or similar technologies capable of converting solar energy into electrical energy. The term Structural Solar Panel(s) (SSPs) refers to indicate novel solar panels that can also perform a structural function while using the above listed solar devices. The term solar panels refers to conventional solar panels while Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) are novel as an embodiment of the present invention. Components that are insignificant to the core spirit of the invention are omitted to avoid clutter. Reasonable professional judgements can be made for errors and omissions by cross-referencing different embodiments of the present invention, drawings and claims in light of the spirit of the present invention. The terms such as boundary wall, border wall, barrier wall, inclined frame structure or solar wall are generally interchangeable for the purpose of this application. Some exemplary design configurations and financing methods that make it possible to create a border wall that pays for by itself are disclosed; other similar configurations that can be developed based on these disclosures are within the scope of the present invention.

[0043] FIGS. 1, 2 and 2a disclose an embodiment of the invention in the form of barrier wall 10 comprising wind turbines 1, turbine posts 2, solar panels 3, vehicle impact barrier 4 and structural frame assembly 5. Wind turbines 1 can be supported by barrier wall 10 or they can be installed independent of the barrier wall in rows along the barrier wall. The direction of wind turbines 1 is predetermined based on the wind direction at a particular geographic location. Assembly 5 is comprised of plurality of inclined structural framing members 5a, which are supported by plurality of lateral bracing members 5b and cross bracing members 5c. Structural members 5a, 5b and 5c could be made of precast concrete or structural steel. Solar panels 3 can be photovoltaic, solar film (or similar technology) supported over rigid panels 7. Rigid panels 7 are supported by framing members 5a by using structural wedges 6 to incline rigid panels 7 at a predetermined angle for maximum solar exposure. Rigid panels 7 can be precast concrete, fiber reinforced plastic or a sandwich assembly of composite materials. Solar panels 3 are mounted over rigid panels 7. In one embodiment of the invention solar panels 3 and rigid panels 7 are formed as a single manufactured unit referred to as Structural Solar Panel (SSP): assembly 8. Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) can be factory manufactured as modular panels that can be directly installed over wedges 6 using Z-clips 9 or other structural methods (FIG. 2a). FIGS. 15 and 15a disclose additional information on Structural Solar Panels (SSPs). SSPs offer a novel approach to streamline construction because besides being solar panels, they serve a structural function as well. Conventional solar panels do not provide any structural integrity; they need to be installed over a structural substrate using rails and runners. Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) 8 and 1000 (FIGS. 15 and 15a) can revolutionize the construction industry not just for the solar barrier walls, but for other applications as well such as residential and commercial construction.

[0044] FIG. 3 discloses an embodiment of the present invention in the form of barrier wall 10a comprising wind turbines 1, turbine posts 2, solar panels 3, sheet piles 30 and inclined frames 31. Inclined frames 31 are supported by sheet piles 30. Solar panels 3 are inclined at a predetermined angle from inclined frames 31 using wedges 32 to gain maximum solar exposure. Solar panels 3 are supported over rigid panels 7 similar to as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. Optionally Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) similar to 8 or 1000 can be installed directly over wedges 32.

[0045] FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 disclose an embodiment of the present invention in the form of barrier wall 20 in which a canopy like structure is comprised of vertical posts 43 and inclined structural frames 44. Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) 45 are supported over inclined frames 44. SSPs 45 are similar to assembly 8 or assembly 1000 (FIGS. 15, 15a). The vertical portion of barrier wall 20 is comprised of vehicle impact barrier 40, rigid infill panels 41, advertising panels 42 and structural posts 43. Infill panels 41 can be precast concrete, fiber reinforced plastic or a sandwich assembly of composite materials. In one embodiment of the invention micro wind turbines 47 secured over posts 46 are installed in rows along barrier wall 20 to supplemental electricity output Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) 45.

[0046] FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 disclose an embodiment of the present invention in which an inclined cantilever structure 30 is comprised of structural frame posts 71 and Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) 73. Posts 71 are bent at a predetermined angle proximal to the top edge of the vertical posts 71 for maximum solar exposure. SSPs 73 (similar to assembly 8 or assembly 1000) are supported over the inclined cantilevered portion of frames 71. Vehicle impact barrier 70 can be provided if needed. Posts 71 are placed at predetermined intervals to form gaps 72 allowing visibility and security at the same time. Depending on the predetermined requirements of a project gaps 72 can be filled with rigid infill panels (not shown) if required.

[0047] FIG. 8a discloses an exemplary method of the present invention for raising capital for a solar barrier wall disclosed in the present application. In one embodiment of the invention the initial capital for the barrier wall is raised by contributions from government(s), private investments, public investments, government bonds, Private Activity Bonds (PABs) and individual investments. Private and public investments can be backed by government subsidies, grants, loans, loan guarantees and/or tax incentives. Private loans and credit lines can be secured against the future projected revenue from the sale of the electricity from the solar wall. The aforementioned method of raising capital for the barrier walls is just one example of raising capital; a combination of aforementioned financial tools can be used depending upon the predetermined requirements of a project. Other financial tools such as creating enterprise zones, green energy rebates, tax abatements and public utility bonds to facilitate the financing of solar barrier walls are within the scope of the present invention. The aforementioned financial tools are commonly used for financing building projects. However such financial tools have never been employed for building boundary walls, because boundary walls have not been known as revenue generating. The novelty of the present invention is to make a boundary walls or other such barriers revenue generating so that the cost of building them can be financed and/or subsidized. As the solar barrier walls offer great clean energy advantages, they can also be directly funded by government spending. FIG. 8b discloses how the revenue generated from a solar barrier wall can be gradually returned to government, private investors, public investors and individuals.

[0048] Another method of paying for the inclined barrier walls particularly when used along highways is to use a portion of the sale of electricity from the barrier walls as a means to pay back the loans secured for the barrier walls. The electricity produced by the barrier walls can be used to power electric vehicles along the highways. The cost traveling by electric vehicles is substantially less than traveling by gasoline vehicles. The consumers can be taxed to use the electricity charging facilities along the highways to pay for the solar barrier walls. The electricity output from solar barrier walls installed along both sides of a highway has the potential to power most of the vehicles traveling on a typical highway. Such solar powered highways offer a great potential to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. The consumers can be asked to pay a toll to travel on these pollution free highways which can be used to pay for the barrier walls.

[0049] As many public and private entities have set goals to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, different public and private partnerships can be developed to generate clean energy from solar power. Such green energy projects can be assigned to different public or private companies to manage them. These companies can be made fully or partially responsible for constructing the barrier walls and maintaining them in return for reaping financial benefits from them.

[0050] The success of the aforementioned methods of securing loans and loan guarantees for solar barrier walls depends upon demonstrating viable return on investment (ROI) to the backers of green energy projects and investors. It involves predetermining the number of solar panels that would be required to generate sufficient amount of electricity to pay for the barrier walls overtime. It involves designing the barrier walls accommodating these predetermined number solar panels. The following calculations show an example of how a 60 feet (18.29M) high 1000 mile (1609.34 KM) long barrier wall 50 (FIG. 12 shows partial wall) would have a Return On Investment period of about 30-40 years. Barrier wall 50 is assumed to be somewhere in a relatively sunny region such as southern United States. Similar calculations are also applicable for two 30 feet high solar barriers 100 installed on both sides of a highway running in the east-west direction somewhere in the southern region of the United States (FIGS. 10 and 11).

[0051] The following electricity output calculations are computed with assistance from the experts at National Renewable Energy Lab (www.NREL.gov):

Total length of 1000 mile (1609.34 KM) long barrier wall 50 (FIG. 12): 1000 miles (1609.34 KM)=5,280,000 FT (1609344 Meters)

The 60 feet (18.29M) high wall will have 20 rows of solar panels in five offsets of 13-0 (3.96M) to 13-6 (4.115M) each.

Surface area for solar panels for one feet length of wall: 135=65 Sq. Ft. (6.039 SQ. M)

Total area of solar panels across the entire length of the wall: 5,280,00065=343200000 Sq. Ft.=31884320 Sq. Meter

Average solar radiation available along the southern region of the United States (based on NREL maps): 6.5 kWh/Sq. M/day

Solar radiation output from the wall per day: 31884320 Sq. M6.5=207,248,080 kWh

Annual solar radiation output from the wall: 207248080365=75,645,549,200 kWh

Annual electricity output using 20% efficiency solar panels: 75,645,549,2000.20=15,129,109,840 kWh (15,129 GWh)

Assumed system losses due to dust on panels, shading, wiring etc.=14%

Annual electricity output after 14% losses=15,129,109,840 kWh14%=13011034462 kWh (13,000 GWh)

Retail value of electricity at 120/kWh=13011034462 kWh0.12=$1.56 Billion/Yr

[0052] 13,000 GWh of electricity can power more than one million homes using an average 1000 kWh per month. Or can be used to pump more than 6.4 trillion gallons of water for irrigation. Or it can be used to power 4.6 million cars running about 12,000 miles per year. This would reduce about 4 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year. The solar barrier wall's output would be equivalent to a medium to large size nuclear plant. For example the output from unit 2 of the Indian Point nuclear plant at New York is around 8,842 GWh/year.

[0053] Calculations based on number of solar panels and PV Watts calculator by NREL.gov:

(The following calculations are based on SunPower X-Series 345 watt solar panels.)

First calculate output from 1 mile (1609.34M) length of barrier wall 50: 1 mile barrier wall=5,280 FT (1609.34M)

Number of 61 (1.549M) long panels in one row across 1 mile (1609.34M) length of the wall: (5,28012) inch61 inch=1,039 panels

(1609.34M1.549M)=1,039 panels

Number of panels in 20 rows (see Fig. above): 1,03920=20780 panels

Total system size based on 345 W panels: 20780345=7169100 W=7169 kW

[0054] Using PV Watts (NREL gov) calculator to determine electrical output for one mile: Specify location of wall>Enter Nogales, Tucson, Ariz.

Module type>Premium

Array type>Fixed open rack

System losses due to wiring etc.>14%

Tilt angle from horizontal axis>40

Azimuth>180

Go to PV Watts results>Yearly output from 1 mile length of the wall: 13,130,789 kWh per year

Yearly output from 1000 mile length of the wall: 13,130,7891000=13,130,789,000 kWh=(13,130 GWh) per year

Retail value at 120/kWh=13,130,789,0000.12=$1.58 billion per year

Rough cost of the solar panel system installation:

Total system size=7169 kW (for 1 mile)1000 miles=7,169,000 kW

Cost of solar system installation based on factory direct price of $1/Watt (or $1000/kW): 7,169,0001000=$7,169,000,000=$7.2 billion

Assumed cost of wall frame: $21.6 billion

Transmission lines, substations etc.=$1.2 billion

Cost of wall+solar panels+transmission lines: $30 billion

[0055] The actual revenue from the electricity will be lower than the projected $1.58 billion retail value depending upon how the electricity is sold. To maximize return on investment, the electricity need not be sold thru traditional utility channels at wholesale price which is generally half the retail value. Instead the electricity may be sold directly to local consumers. This would benefit local communities as they would get a good price, and would also generate decent revenue. For example if the electricity is sold at 8/kWh it would generate $1 billion revenue per year which can be used to pay estimated $30 billion cost of the barrier wall in about 30 years. Given the uncertainty about pricing a safer estimate for return on investment may be 30-40 years.

[0056] Similarly when wind turbines are used to supplement electricity output of solar barrier wall (refer to FIG. 21) a reasonable return on investment can be achieved for wind turbines. The following calculations show an example of using 15 KW wind turbines as manufactured by Bergey Windpower, OK 73069 USA installed at 120 FT height along a 1000 mile (1609.34 KM) long solar barrier wall. In this example, the average wind speed of the installation is assumed to be 5.5 meters per second (12.3 miles per hour) at 120 feet (36.58M) height. The electricity output would be higher if higher wind speeds are available at a specific geographic location. The following calculations are prepared with the assistance from Bergey Windpower:

[0057] Rotor diameter: 31.5 ft. (9.6M)

[0058] Turbine spacing: 75-feet (22.86M) [0059] (two rows staggered with 150 ft. (45.72M) spacing)

[0060] Average annual wind speed: 5.5 m/s (12.3 mph@120 FT height)

[0061] Turbine height: 120 ft. (36.58M)

[0062] Cost per installation: $70,000.00

[0063] Number of wind turbines along a 1000 mile long solar barrier wall: 70,400

[0064] (The turbines can be staggered in two rows with 150 feet (45.72M) distance between the turbines. See FIG. 21 as an example.)

[0065] Total cost of installation: $4,928,000,000

[0066] Projected output per turbine at 5.5 m/s (12.3 mph): 33,500 kWH/year

[0067] Electric output from 70,400 turbines: 2,358,400,000 kWH/year

[0068] Electricity retail value at $ 0.08/kWH: $188,672,000

[0069] Estimated return on investment (ROI): 26 years

[0070] Due to price variations, inflation costs, site preparation costs, transmission line costs etc. the actual ROI may be longer.

[0071] FIG. 9a discloses an embodiment of the invention in which barrier wall 40 is comprised of inclined cantilevered precast concrete panels 90 which are joined side by side.

[0072] Precast panels 90 are bent proximal to the top end at a predetermined angle for maximum solar exposure. Solar panels 91 are mounted over the bent portion of panels 90. Solar panels 91 can be photovoltaic, solar film (or similar technology).

[0073] FIG. 9b discloses an embodiment of the invention in which barrier wall 40a is comprised of tilted T shaped precast concrete panels 92 which are joined side by side. The top portion of the T shape is tilted at a predetermined angle for maximum solar exposure based on the geographic location of a project. Solar panels 93 are mounted over the titled portion of the T. Solar panels 93 can be photovoltaic, solar film (or similar technology). Panel 92 can be a single unit or it can be formed in two pieces for shipping convenience: A vertical portion of the T shape and a tilted top portion of the T shape. The tilted top portion of the T shape can be joined with the vertical portion of the T on site with structural connections (not shown) to form the tilted T shape.

[0074] FIGS. 10 and 11 disclose an embodiment of the invention comprising two solar powered inclined barriers 100 installed on both sides of a highway. Barrier walls 100 are similar to barrier wall 10 (FIGS. 1 and 2). In this embodiment inclined frame structures 5 are used to support Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) 8. The orientation of barriers 100 in the horizontal plane and the inclination of solar panels is predetermined based on the geographic location of a project to gain maximum solar exposure. For optimal electricity output the highway should run somewhat in the east-west direction such that solar panels 8 face south in the northern hemisphere. FIG. 11 shows the back view of barriers 100.

[0075] FIG. 13 discloses an embodiment of the invention in which barrier wall 200 is comprised of an inclined frame structure assembly 101. Assembly 101 is comprised of a plurality of inclined engineered framing members 101a spaced at predetermined intervals. Framing members 101a are supported by structurally engineered cross bracing members 101b and lateral bracing members 101c and 101d. Lateral bracing members 101c and 101d are inclined at predetermined angles to resist the forces imposed by inclined frames 101a. Lateral bracing members may be joined at the base as shown in FIG. 13 or they may be independent of each other. Vehicle impact barriers 103 are provided at the base of framing members 101a; and vehicle impact barriers 104 are provided at the base of lateral bracing members 101d. Vehicle impact barriers may be designed as cross bracing members to support frames 101a and lateral bracing members 101d or they may be independent of the structure. The foundations of barrier wall 200 are not disclosed as part of this specification; they will need to be engineered based on the soil bearing capacity of a specific geographic location of the installation. Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) 1000 are used as the solar generating component of barrier wall 200. Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) 1000 are novel because not only they generate electricity, they are structural and can span directly between framing members 101a without the need for a structural substrate or intermediate runners. This method speeds up construction and saves installation costs.

[0076] FIGS. 14, 15 and 16 describe the method of installing Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) 1000 to inclined framing members 101a. Structural members 101a, 101b, 101c and 101d can be precast concrete or structural steel that can be assembled in the field using structural connections (not shown). Plurality of Z-clips 1000j are attached to inclined framing members 101a at predetermined intervals. Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) 1000 are provided with Z-clips 1000h matching the spacing of Z-clips 1000j such that they can be readily locked in place with each other securing SSPs 1000 to frames 101a.

[0077] FIG. 15 discloses partial section through Structural Solar Panel (SSP) assembly 1000 shown in FIGS. 13 and 14. FIG. 15a shows an enlargement of SSP assembly 1000 showing placement of SSPs adjacent to each another. Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) 1000 are comprised of structural assembly 1000s and solar cells 1000e that are attached to structural assembly 1000s as a single manufactured unit. Structural assembly 1000s is comprised of perimeter frames 1000a, outer sheathing 1000b, inner sheathing 1000c and infill material 1000d. In another embodiment of the invention the infill 1000d may be omitted and assembly 1000s can be made structurally sound by using stiffners or intermittent frames (not shown) within assembly 1000s.

[0078] Structural assembly 1000s can be made similar to Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) which are commonly used in the construction industry. SIPs have rigid inner and outer sheathings and an inner foam core. Assembly 1000s can also be made like sandwich-structured composites or other such assemblies that are fabricated by attaching two thin but stiff skins to a lightweight but thick core. Assembly 1000s may also be made like hollow metal doors that use outer thin sheet metal skins and several stiffeners inside the skin of the door to make the door sturdy but lightweight. For more information on SIPs' and sandwich-structured composite panels refer to Wikipedia.org by searching these terms on the website or visiting sips.org. Assembly 1000s may also be formed like honeycomb (or other hollow shapes) as inner core and thin but rigid outer sheathing. Some examples of conventional structural composite panels can be found at websites: strongwell.com, structall.com and alro.com. The inventive step taken for the novel Structural Solar Panels 1000 is that it combines structural assembly 1000s with solar cells 1000e to form integrated assembly 1000. The objective is to streamline the construction process. For example mounting of conventional solar panels on rooftops using SIPs requires installation of rails and runners on SIPs. This process is labor intensive and damages the SIPs because several puncturing holes must be made into the SIPs. The present invention combines SIPs and solar panels into a single unit by manufacturing solar cells or solar film directly over structural sandwich 1000s for fast and easy installation. Structural Solar Panels 1000 (SSPs) are intended to be factory finished with weather resistant outer transparent casing 1000f, perimeter channel guards 1000g, Z-clips 1000h, rubber/neoprene gaskets 1000i and electrical connections (not shown). It is the intent of the applicant to pursue an independent claim for SSPs because this novel approach can streamline the solar panel installation process, not only for the solar panel equipped barriers but also elsewhere in residential and commercial construction.

[0079] The choice of materials for Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) 1000 can be predetermined based on the predetermined requirements of a project. For example if sound insulation is a governing factor for sound attenuating solar barriers installed along highways, infill material 1000d can be glass wool or mineral wool. When fire retardation is a prime factor for solar panel equipped fire barriers around a fire zone, an appropriate fire retarding infill material such as gypsum can be chosen. When security is a primer factor for a solar panel equipped security barrier, the infill material can be precast concrete. Additionally panel breakage sensors can be attached to Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) or imbedded in the SSPs. When temperature control is a prime factor for Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) used as a part of residential or commercial construction appropriate infill material having predetermined insulation values can be chosen as infill material 1000d. When water resistance is a prime concern for Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) used in residential or commercial construction appropriate outer sheathing 1000b can be made of water resistant materials such as reinforced fiberglass (FRP). If the same assembly also requires fire resistance properties, the inner sheathing member 1000c can be made of gypsum board or other fire resistant material. When insulation, sound attenuation or fire resistance is not required, infill 1000d can be omitted and structural integrity of panel 1000 can be maintained by using stiffners and/or additional framing members (not shown) within structural assembly 1000s.

[0080] FIGS. 17, 18 and 19 disclose an embodiment of the invention in which barrier wall 500 is comprised of inclined frame structure assembly 101. Assembly 101 is comprised of a plurality of inclined engineered framing members 101a spaced at predetermined intervals. Framing members 101a are supported by structurally engineered cross bracing members 101b and lateral bracing members 101c and 101d. Lateral bracing members 101c and 101d are inclined at predetermined angles to resist the forces imposed by inclined frames 101a. Vehicle impact barriers 103 are provided at the base of frames 101a; and vehicle impact barriers 104 are provided at the base of lateral bracing members 101d. Barrier wall 500 is comprised of conventional solar panels 102a forming solar array 102. Solar panels 102a are installed over pluralities of metallic runners 101e secured to cross bracing members 101b. Runners 101e are spaced at predetermined distances to provide support for solar panels 102a. Solar panels 102a are attached to runners 101e and framing members 101a. Solar array 102 is intended to face the sunward direction for the entire length of barrier wall 500 for maximum solar exposure. FIG. 18 shows the back view of barrier wall 500 disclosing how electric vehicle charging stations 101s and advertising panels 101y can be integrated with barrier wall 500 when used along a highway. FIG. 19 discloses an embodiment of the present invention in which space 500s under barrier wall 500 is made usable by enclosing it with weather resistant partitions 500a and 500b. Space 500s can be used for housing different facilities such as warehouses, shipping centers, retail and service centers along highways. Or it can be used for storage or animal shelters along farmlands.

[0081] FIGS. 20 and 21 disclose an embodiment of the invention in which barrier wall 180 is fitted with Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) 1000. Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) 1000 are supported by inclined frames 180a. Inclined frames 180a are supported by lateral bracing members 180b and 180c. Advertising panels 180d are fitted on lateral bracing members 180c facing the highway. Electric vehicle charging stations 180e are provided alongside highway that supply electricity produced by Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) 1000. Electric vehicle charging stations 180e can be provided with electricity storage batteries and can also be connected to utility grid. FIG. 21 shows an aerial view of barrier walls 180. This embodiment of the invention that also comprises wind turbines 2000 installed along barrier wall 180. In this exemplary embodiment wind turbines 2000 are installed in two rows staggered with each other to maximize spacing between the turbines for greater wind exposure. The wind turbines can substantially boost the electricity output of solar barrier wall 180 particularly for areas where substantial wind resource is available. Calculations provided earlier in this specification outline return on investment for wind turbines. The orientation of the wind turbines as shown is for reference only; the orientation needs to be predetermined for maximum wind exposure based on the geographic location of an installation. Combining electricity output from wind turbines 2000 with the electricity output from Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) 1000 provides greater benefits because the same transmission lines and equipment is utilized for greater efficiency, and the Return On Investment can be improved.

[0082] FIG. 22 discloses an embodiment of the invention in which inclined barrier wall 190 is used to power electric trains. Barrier wall 190 is fitted with Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) 1000. Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) 1000 are supported by inclined frame 190a. Inclined frames 190a are supported by columns 190b, 190c and cross bracing members 190d and 190e. Colums 190c are bent proximal to the top to support inclined frames 190a. The electricity produced by Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) 1000 can used to directly power the electric trains. Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) 1000 can be grid-tied to transmit excess electricity to utility grid, and withdraw electricity when needed. The electric supply for the trains can also be backed with electricity storage batteries.

[0083] FIGS. 23, 24 and 25 disclose an embodiment of the invention in which inclined barrier wall 220 is used as a fire barrier to protect against wild fires. Barrier wall 220 is located between a fire zone and protected habitable zone to mitigate the risk of fire being spread from a fire prone area to residential, commercial or other habitable area. This embodiment of the invention discloses a novel method of using solar energy as a means to fight fires of any kind. Fire risk from wild fires is well known as observed in California. This embodiment of the invention can greatly mitigate such risks while producing clean electricity from solar energy; and the cost of barrier wall 220 can be greatly subsidized by the financing methods disclosed hereinbefore. The method of using solar energy to fight wild fires comprises the steps of erecting a fire resistant barrier wall 220 with predetermined number of solar panels or Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) that can produced predetermined amount of electricity from solar energy that is sufficient to produce portable water from underground sources; storing that water in overhead water storage tanks 220t; equipping barrier wall 220 with high pressure fire hoses 220h and connecting fire hoses 220h with water lines 220f to draw water from storage tanks 220t when required; providing plurality of firehose connections 220g along barrier wall 220 and connecting them to draw water from storage tanks 220t using water lines 220f; enabling firefighters to draw water from firehose connections 220g; providing plurality of water sprinklers 220w along barrier wall 220; connecting sprinklers 220w with water lines 220f to draw water from storage tanks 220t when required; maintaining a green vegetation belt along fire zone using water from sprinklers 220w wherein barrier wall 220, fire hoses 220h, firehose connections 220g, water sprinklers 220w and green vegetation belt 220v run along a fire zone to substantially separate fire zone from habitable zone.

[0084] Barrier wall 220 is comprised of structural inclined frames 220a, lateral bracing frames 220b, vertical framing members 220c and cross bracing members 220d. Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) similar to assembly 1000 are supported over inclined frames 220a. SSPs 1000 can be provided with fire resistive infill materials or SSPs 1000 can be backed by separate fire resistive panels 220e. The electricity from SSPs 1000 can be used to pump underground water which can be stored in overhead water storage tanks 220t. Storage tanks 220t maintain a water reserve to protect against fire dangers; they can also be used to serve adjacent communities and also be connected to the municipality water supply. Plurality of water lines 220f connected from overhead water storage tanks 220t are supported by vertical framing members 220c. Water lines 220f are provided with high pressure water hoses 220h proximal to the highest point of vertical framing members 220c. 220j indicates spread of water from high pressure water hoses 220h. Vertical framing members 220c are preferably made longer to extend past inclined frames 220a vertically. This provides benefits to mount high pressure water hoses 220h at a higher level for better water spread to extinguish fires. Water hoses 220h can be automated to respond to fires or they can be remotely operated under manual supervision. Plurality of firehose connections 220g are also connected to water lines 220f which can be used by firefighters to extinguish an approaching fire. Plurality of water sprinklers 220w can also be connected to water lines 220f for irrigating vegetation to maintain a green belt around a wild fire zone. Sprinklers 220w can also be high pressured to dispose a greater water flow during a fire event.

[0085] The aforementioned discloser offers a unique opportunity to harness solar energy to fight wild fires or any other fires such as industrial fires. The aforementioned disclosure offers several layers of protection against wild fires. As a first means of defense, passive fire suppression measures are employed in the form of a green vegetation belt which is maintained by water produced by the electricity from barrier 220. As another passive measure barrier 220 is equipped with fire resistive materials to act as a fire wall. As active fire suppression measures barrier 220 is equipped with high pressure water hoses 220h and firehose connections 220g. Firehose connections 220g enable fighters to quickly deploy around a fire zone without the need for conventional fire trucks. FIG. 25 discloses an exemplary site plan showing how plurality of barrier walls 220 can be used to separate habitable zone from a fire zone and how green vegetation belt 220v can be deployed as a passive fire suppression measure. It is the intent of the applicant to pursue an independent claim or a continuation or divisional application for the aforementioned solar powered fire extinguishing systems and methods.

[0086] Conventional solar panels or Structural Solar Panels (SSPs) as shown in all embodiments of the present invention form an active part of the installation to produce electricity from solar energy. The electricity can be off-grid or grid tied using necessary devices such as inverts, controllers, transformers, electrical feeders and transmission lines (not shown).

[0087] The embodiments of the present invention as described herein are for examples only; they should not be used in a limiting sense to interpret the scope of the present invention. Other configurations of solar panels and supporting barrier wall structures are within the scope of the present invention. For example the present invention can be exercised in a number of other configurations such as attaching solar panels to concrete walls, fences made of closely spaced bollards, Normandy or Anti-Ram fencing. Other modifications that can be made to these exemplary embodiments are within the scope of the present invention.