A New Roof and Solar Energy All in One

Is your roof getting old? Is it time to replace it? Why not also consider installing a solar energy system as part of your roof. Cutting edge technology over the last decade called solar shingles has emerged as a newer type of photovoltaic modules that can be incorporated into buildings (BIPV – see previous blog). These solar shingles have been designed to look and act like regular shingles, but have the added benefit of creating energy from the sun. These shingles use flexible thin film cells which allow them to be installed as part of the roof. These shingles help extend the normal roof life by protecting against water damage and ultraviolet rays. Also, since solar shingles replace traditional shingles, a homeowner will save on materials and will benefit from reduced electricity costs. Depending on the type of roof, solar shingles are available in different sizes and styles.

Dow Solar Shingles

Please contact PurePoint Energy with any questions and to find out more about renewable energy options. http://www.purepointenergy.com/your.htm

BIPV – Solar Energy with an Aesthetic Appeal

For some interested in solar energy, the look and size of the solar panels that sit atop a house or building can be an eyesore. While some like the futuristic look of the solar panels, others view a solar array as a clunky addition to a building. However, nowadays, solar panels don’t have to jut out of the exterior of a house with no regard for aesthetics. A Building Integrated Photovoltaic system (BIPV) consists of integrating photovoltaic modules into the structure of the building, most often into the roof or the façade. Unlike the traditional hard crystalline PV panels, BIPV modules include a variety of different materials that can be incorporated into the building itself. For instance, solar roof tiles can substitute for traditional shingles while generating electricity and blending right into the roof. Façade PV modules can be installed on buildings giving them a whole new chic, futuristic look. The ability to alter the transparency of solar panels can allow PV modules to replace materials that are commonly made with glass and similar materials such as windows or skylights.

These BIPV systems serve not only to create architectural appeal but also provide savings in materials that would otherwise be used and reduced electricity costs. Along with this, these systems will help protect against the weather and will be a source of clean, renewable energy.

To find out more about BIVP systems and solar energy please visit us at http://www.purepointenergy.com/