Photovoltaic panel waterproofing trough construction

What is a fully integrated photovoltaic roof?

Figure 1. Fully integrated photovoltaic (PV) roof “RIS.” The solutions that have been proven fall into the following categories: Interlocking panel systems, which either use panels that mimic roofing tiles with the photovoltaic (PV) element embedded in the surface or have a frame bonded to the PV panel which provides the sealing interlock.

What is a PV roof?

PV slates and shingles are a more unusual product, but a niche market has developed for aesthetic PV roofs. The advantage of using a traditionally mounted roof product is that normal building trade practice can be used, and there is little resistance to the concept from the naturally conservative building trade.

Can a PV system be used on a roof?

Most types of roof have been used with a PV system at some time. The overall construction must be capable of taking the additional load of the PV (or indeed survive the additional uplift when the PV replaces a much heavier roof surface such as concrete tiles).

How do you fix a PV system to a flat roof?

There are two fundamental options for fixing a PV system to a flat roof, ballasted or mechanical. A ballasted system adds additional weight to anchor the array to the roof whereas mechanical installations cover two key methods, either they are fixed to the deck penetrating the roof covering or they do not and leave the waterproofing system intact.

Can a PV array be installed on a flat roof?

PV arrays are a great addition to a flat roof, and we’re often asked to include them. However many PV installers send us proposals for fixing similar to this sample detail, which uses a membrane covered softwood batten: We can understand why a PV installer might want to use such a detail – it appears to be quite a simple, cheap solution.

Should you retrofit a photovoltaic roof?

Retrofitting photovoltaic panels brings all the benefits of low maintenance renewable energy generation to an existing building, with the ideal opportunity for the installation to take place when the roof covering is being replaced. Some core reasons for inclusion are: Meet sustainability targets for the building and reduce its carbon footprint.