Building Services

Photovoltaic modules

In today's climate, green issues are at the forefront of new building products – clients' demand for more environmentally friendly products are high, which in turn means manufacturers have to move with the times. Photovoltaic panels have always had a strong following, despite the original high cost outlay, although many would say that they are not the most aesthetically pleasing of products. This is now about to change, due to new products being launched by slate manufacturers.

Photovoltaic modules have now been manufactured into products which actually look like slates. These can then be used to cover the whole roof or partial areas depending on which manufacturer you choose. Several companies have designed their slates so that they can be used alongside concrete slates; these products have now been around for a few years. However, another company has developed their photovoltaic module to look like natural slate and is so convincing that it has been successfully used on a Grade 1 listed building. The new natural-look photovoltaic slates produce around 600 Watts to 3 Kilowatts per pack, and require no specialist training to fit them.

Next time you are considering specifying photovoltaic modules, if appropriate to your project, natural looking photovoltaic slates might be the option you are looking for!

Related NBS information:

Articles:

Selected links:

Written April 2009

 

ViewAllArticles

BackToTop

NBS eNews

Sign up now for our FREE monthly eNewsletter, for the latest exclusive industry information from our technical experts and guest writers.

SignUpNow

NBS Reading List

This area of the site lists books relating to Building Services which we think you might find useful.

 

ViewReadingList