Solar shingles protect roofs, harvest energy

The technology integrates low-cost, thin-film CIGS photovoltaic cells into a proprietary roofing shingle design, which represents a multi-functional solar energy generating roofing product. The innovative product design reduces installation costs because the conventional roofing shingles and solar generating shingles are installed simultaneously by roofing contractors. DSS expects an enthusiastic response from roofing contractors since no specialised skills or knowledge of solar array installations is required.

"This is just one example of how Dow's $1.5 billion (Rs.7,292.19 crore) annual R&D investment is allowing us to deliver practical solutions for some of the world's most critical challenges," said Andrew Liveris, chairman and CEO at Dow.

Jane Palmieri, managing director of Dow Solar Solutions, noted that Dow's technology addresses two of the biggest challenges associated with solar power—cost and acceptance. "Consumers reap the benefits of our innovation. This is about providing roof protection and electricity generation all from one product, with lower costs, improved aesthetics, easier installation and long-lasting performance," she said.

The Dow Powerhouse Solar Shingles are expected to be available in limited quantities by mid-2010 and projected to be more widely available in 2011.

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