Conventional solar photovoltaic (PV) roof systems do not suit all types of buildings, especially as a retrofit solution for period buildings with pitched rooves. But a collaboration between two German companies Creaton and Autarq has resulted in compact solar roof tiles that can be blended with existing roof tiles.

Monocrystalline solar cells made by Autarq are used for the PV roof tiles, with 3.2mm tempered and toughened safety glass on the front. A composite of EVA, Tedlar and silicone make the tiles super hard-wearing and able to operate in a temperature range between -40 to +85 °C.

The product, currently available as “Creaton Domino black" solar tiles, can either replace old roof tiles or be integrated with the original tiles. The units are individually connected to each other by plug connections to form a unified system, which is offered with an inverter, but is also widely compatible with other PV inverters.

According to Creaton, the mechanical load of the PV tiles ranges up to 5400 Pascal. Durability and longevity are certified according to IEC 61215 and safety according to IEC 61730. Hail protection class 5 is fulfilled as well as fire protection regulations. The materials are also UV and weather resistant, non-toxic and recyclable.

"The “Creaton PV-Autarq” roof tile system has a modular design and is thus perfectly suitable for more complex roof surfaces," explains Creaton sales director Florian Scherr in an article in PV Magazine. The roof solution is offered through the Creaton "Solar World" and includes roof-integrated and on-roof PV systems and will soon be available as a red tile. The system components carry a warranty of up to 25 years.