Roof-1

What do product designers do when they cannot source a key element for the house they are building? They design it. This is precisely what sparked the development of the Roof-1 – a cleverly devised solar roof solution with a surprisingly attractive surface. The designer focused on two factors: high performance for energy self-sufficiency and a timeless, elegant appearance that appeals to the target audience’s aesthetic sensibilities. Unlike conventional photovoltaic modules, which are mounted on existing roof tiles with brackets, the narrow cells are installed directly on the roof surface. Roof-1 combines a frame-free PV cell with a steel roof tile using an innovative processing method. Both elements have undergone extensive testing to confirm their durability, load limits and robustness. The use of Roof-1 is particularly rewarding in the case of new buildings, where it can simply be installed in place of conventional tiles, which means the roofing contractor can complete the entire roof in one go. It also boasts a timeless appearance that harmonises well with different architectural styles. The cells are specially processed to cover the grid lines that are normally visible with the result of a homogeneous and elegant black surface. The all-black colour also offers functional advantages because black surfaces are less reflective and more unobtrusive for neighbours. Moreover, they absorb heat better, allowing snow on the roof to melt more quickly in winter. “The streamlined design is very clever because it makes optimum use of the roof area for power generation,” praised the jury. “Simple installation, ease of maintenance and the clean appearance is likely to win over many consumers who were deterred in the past by the somewhat industrialised appearance of solar modules. Roof-1 will blend in well with cityscapes and thus also contribute to the energy transition.” In fact, it allows everyone to orchestrate their own personal energy transition in style – a win-win situation for both humans and the environment.