Green Me Now

Alternatives to cumbersome solar panels are now beginning to appear in the form of roofing shingles and tiles containing photovoltaic cells. According to a New York Times article, companies are creating these building-integrated photovoltaics to match existing shingle types, such as the terra cotta tile roofing in the Southwest and the gray shingles of coastal saltbox cottages.

The article notes that SRS Energy of Philadelphia is making curved solar roofing tiles designed to blend in with Southern California’s traditional clay tiles. The roofing materials costs about 10% to 20% more than the power equivalent in solar panels.

Tiles are expected to become available in January, initially on the West Coast.

Another solar material for roofs and the sides of buildings is being made by Global Solar Energy of Tucson. The company makes a photovoltaic film that is integrated into building-material products. And System Photonics, based in Italy, makes ceramic tiles incorporating the same type of cells used in traditional solar panels.

The building-integrated products looked promising, according to marketr researcher NanoMarkets, but the construction and real estate market recoveries will play a role in their timely acceptance.