Raise the roof in style
Solar technology is developing at a rapid pace, with building integrated photovoltaics like solar roofs rising in popularity. They combine cutting-edge efficiency, durability and seamless design to offer homeowners and businesses a greener, more aesthetically integrated way to contribute to a sustainable future. Here, Martin Ulmann, Marketing Manager at SunStyle, shares his reasons for considering solar roofs over solar panels.
The world is moving away from its dependence on fossil fuels and towards a greener future.
This demand has accelerated innovations in green technology, not only at generation-level, but also in the way that it’s integrated and designed. For those with reservations about the aesthetics of photovoltaics, the latter could be seen as make-or-break.
After COP29, many citizens will be looking for ways to contribute to the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. Although solar panels have been a standard way for homeowners to generate renewable energy for years, we might not see too many of them in our future. Yes, homeowners are still likely to favour solar as a form of renewable energy, but traditional panels could find their way out of the market in exchange for a more aesthetic product: solar roof tiles.
Aesthetics
A recent survey by EcoWatch found that 31% of homeowners think that solar panels are ugly, which comes as no surprise. Solar panels are retrofitted onto an existing roof structure, meaning that they rarely blend in with their surroundings. Environmentally-conscious homeowners no longer have to compromise on aesthetics by investing in building integrated photovoltaics (BIPVs), or solar roofs, which can also improve the overall value of the property.
In some areas, the aesthetics of a solar panel could stop them from being installed altogether. BIPVs have gained popularity in districts with strict specifications that prevent the installation of traditional solar panels. For example, historically significant buildings undergoing roof renovations could benefit from generating renewable energy without detracting from their cultural importance.
Coverage
When it comes to generating renewable power for your home, it is important to understand that it is a long-term investment. This means getting the most out of photovoltaics to ensure maximum solar energy capture and reducing energy costs. Solar roofs make full use of the available surface area while minimising wasted space even on irregularly shaped roofs that can usually be challenging to get sufficient coverage on.
Traditional solar panel installations require exclusion and clamp zones, which are areas of the roof that panels cannot cover. Exclusion zones are typically spaces near edges, vents, chimneys and skylights where panels cannot be installed. Clamp zones refer to sections needed for securing the panels to mounting systems, often resulting in gaps between panels. These limitations reduce the overall opportunity for coverage, leaving portions of the roof unutilised for energy generation.
Dual functionality
Replacing a traditional roof with a solar roof offers the dual benefit of generating electricity and enhancing durability. Solar roofs are often made from tempered glass or high-grade composite materials, highly resistant to wear and tear. These materials reduce the need for frequent repairs or replacements even in regions with extreme weather conditions.
This is a distinct advantage over solar panels that can be vulnerable to strong winds, heavy snow and hail. With its origins in the Alps, SunStyle has refined this aspect thanks to PERC monocrystalline silicon cells and high quality, hardened solar glass. Their lightweight modular design also makes them easy to install and simplifies transportation to remote regions.
Maintenance simplicity
Choosing a solar roof also helps minimise potential structural vulnerabilities caused by retrofitting. Addressing any damage to the roof behind a mounted solar panel during or after installation can be a challenging process.
Electrical maintenance is also helped by BIPVs, as they have a simplified layout and require fewer electrical junctions and connections, which are common points of failure in traditional solar panel systems. Without open spaces underneath, they are also better protected from any risk of wear, corrosion or accidental disconnections.
As the demand for solar energy grows, it could become much harder to spot solar installations on our homes. Not because fewer exist, but because of the move towards BIPVs.
