Here at Cooler Planet, we focus on a list of area-specific solar installers that we know are reputable, with enough training and experience under their proverbial belts to deliver solar energy systems that will last for years and perform as described. But we also like to keep abreast of innovative technology. Today’s pipe dream may be tomorrow’s energy paradigm, so we search out new and interesting solar technologies struggling for a place in the market.
One of these is Redwood Renewables, a California company that is repurposing waste rubber into integrated solar roofing products that both reduce landfill waste and provide homeowners with solar electricity.
Not only do these “coolroof” roofing tiles enable electricity production, but – according to managing director Tom Faust – they deliver at $5 per watt installed. This compares favorably to conventional solar, which currently costs between $7 and $10 per watt installed.
The shingles are reportedly made by laminating solar cells directly on the surface of a recycled polymer substrate, which adds product strength and a potential 30-year product lifetime. The manufacturing process is, according to Faust, not only less costly than traditional silicone solar panels, but less costly than other integrated roofing materials as well.
With two patents in place, and another pending, the company reports a $20-million purchase order from a roofing wholesaler, though Faust declined to provide a name or documentation. The company is also looking for venture capital, which means it is still clearly in the startup phase.
Nonetheless, keep an eye on Redwood. In the meantime, turn to Cooler Planet for technologies that work right now if you are thinking of installing solar electricity to light your home and save the planet.
{ 11 comments… read them below or add one }
Yeah, Shingles are the most common source of roof leaks location and it gives you a situation where you face repair problems.
Have to admit that solar capabilities integrated into shingles made out of waste rubber is an “earth changing” technology.
Has anyone heard of solar thechnology being integrated into asphalt shingles?
I haven’t heard of mixing photovoltaic cells and asphalt shingles, no. Many of the solar shingles, however, look very similar to asphalt tiles.
we’re in the same line of business..goodluck
Thanks, San Jose roof repair. Come back often to see more solar news, and good luck to you, too.
recently people are choosing solar roof panels to renovate their house…I think the prices are becoming cheaper and more affordable now…
I agree, solar roof shingles. With the newest incentive loan guarantee to Solyndra (see Cooler Planet news), and other DOE-supported measures, I expect solar energy (PV) to reach parity with conventional energy this year. What do you think?
perhaps it might be one of the reason and the other reasons are i think many manufactures are competing each other in developing new technology/features for the solar panels makes the current one cheaper cause they will come out with other great panels ..
I agree that the technology is fairly new and changes are inevitable in the near future. I also like the solar roof tiles instead of solar panel as solar roof tiles are more elegant and smaller in size.
Agreed! Competition drives innovation. I’m expecting some big changes myself in the solar energy field, in spite of the recession.
I like them, too, but wish they came in the traditional red or beige.