Rome’s Invisible Panels that Promise Savings & Aesthetics: Traditional PV Tiles

Source: TechXplore

An archeological park in Pompeii and Evora city in Portugal have introduced solar panels that look like Roman tiles that go well with the skyline of the city. With this innovation, architectural constraints have been made into assets, while also giving a boost to culture and the principle of sustainability.

Made to resemble the terracotta tiles used by the Romans, the solar panels sit atop the House of Cerere but without comprising on the electricity that is needed to light up the frescoes. The solution promises savings with the aesthetics intact. Known as the Traditional PV Tiles, they are invisible to the eye.

The Traditional PV Tiles are created with the help of a polymer compound. This enables the the sunrays rays to filter through. The PV cells are then added to it manually. Then, a layering of polymer compound is made to cover them. The PV tiles can assume the appearance of construction materials such as stone, wood, concrete, and so they blend in well with the landscape. Thus, they can be used for installation on rooftops or even floors or walls.

These PV tiles are without doubt, an innovative solution that have multiple benefits on offer, such as they do not deface the landscape, are easy on the pocket while being appealing to the eye. No wonder then that these tiles, that have received the nod from Italy’s Ministry of Culture, has already been installed in Vicoforte, a popular tourist destination. The tiles are also set to be employed in Maxxi, which is the famous Roman museum of art. Several rooftops of public buildings will also install these tiles. Italy-based firm Tegola Canadese is one of its technical partners.