Re-roofing homes with stylish, high-power solar tiles

The invisible tiles integrate easily for a seamless and customisable look

Spotted: One way nations can contribute to the world’s goal of tripling global renewable energy capacity by 2030 is to integrate generation into more locations. Increasing the aesthetics and versatility of renewable energy systems helps accomplish that, and Australian company Volt’s integrated solar roof tiles are an efficient, high-power option.

Volt’s solar energy tiles are inconspicuous and larger and lighter than traditionally sized tiles. Because of their reduced weight, fewer building materials are required in a home’s construction to support the tiled roof, helping to reduce the emissions generated when a home is being built. Volt’s tiles are also 100 per cent recyclable and the company includes an end-of-life plan for each installation.

The solar cells and conductive layer lie beneath tempered glass that has an anti-glare coating, and the aluminium frame contains the company’s patent-pending interlocking mechanism that connects the panels to each other and the roof tiles. To make integration smooth and provide customers with attractive roof designs, Volt partners with Australian manufacturer of premium concrete and terracotta roof tiles Bristile Roofing and La Escandella, which is a Spain-based manufacturer of ceramic products.

The tiles are available in two different styles and a variety of colours. The Planum range produces up to 115 watts of energy and works at 18.8 per cent efficiency. The Lodge line of tiles is slightly more efficient, at 19.5 per cent, and produces up to 105 watts of energy. Installed by certified professionals, Volt’s tiles can be used both in new builds and re-roofing projects.

A number of innovations in Springwise’s library turn passive roof tiles into active solar power-generating devices, including nailable solar shingles and invisible solar cells that look just like historic terracotta or stone roof tiles that make it possible for listed buildings to use renewable energy.

Written By: Keely Khoury