German company Paxos Solar has developed solar roof tiles that not only generate electricity but can also power heat pumps. The first units could be installed this year.
The solar roof tiles look like regular roof tiles, but have a matt, dark front that catches sunlight. Each roof tile is approximately 60 by 50 centimetres and delivers 44 watts of power. You can generate around 190 watts per square metre.
The clever thing about this invention is that the roof tiles not only generate electricity, but also heat. The air under the tiles is heated by the sun and rises to the ridge of the roof. There, the warm air is collected and led to the heat pump. This ensures that the heat pump works more efficiently.
Benefits for homeowners
For people who want solar panels but don’t have the space or don’t like the look of them, these roof tiles offer a solution. They fit seamlessly into the existing roof. Moreover, according to the company, which works with the German PV Magazine spoke, twice as fast as a normal roof. The roof tiles are also lighter in weight.
Research from the University of Cologne shows that a heat pump using these solar roof tiles uses around 20 percent less energy per year. That is a significant saving for homeowners.
First installations will take place this year
Paxos Solar plans to install the solar roof tiles on 200 roofs this year. The company has already announced a production partnership with Chinese manufacturer Longi to produce the special solar cells used in the roof tiles. It is not known when the roof tiles will be available outside Germany.
Read more news about energy and don’t miss anything with our newsletter.
Source: www.bright.nl
