The impact of modern living on the environment is a constant reminder of the need to adopt sustainable practices and make sensible lifestyle choices. Our reliance on energy to power our appliances, hot water, lights, devices and vehicles takes a huge toll not only on the environment but also our finances. Reducing this reliance through sustainable means moving towards a carbon neutral life and living more economically, in tandem with other measures such as minimising non-recyclable household waste.
Roofs have long been used to generate both electrical energy to power our homes and thermal energy in the form of solar hot water. Conventional practices require fixing solar systems as an afterthought to an otherwise functional roof. However, the advent and rise of Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) has changed the rules of the game by providing a solution where solar capability is built into the function of the roofing structure.
The many benefits of Building Integrated Photovoltaics
Building Integrated Photovoltaics deliver a number of benefits to the home including some features unique to Tractile.
Aesthetics
In the absence of visible solar panels or a hot water system, the roofline retains its original design and form, without any unsightly interruptions.
Superior solar performance
The BIPV system runs water through the solar tiles to not only heat water but also cool the tiles, allowing them to generate more electrical energy – this is a feature unique to Tractile.
Better insulation
Tractile’s BIPV system uses water to cool the solar cells, removing heat away from the roof, lowering the interior temperature and reducing the need for air-conditioning, all of which lead to significant energy savings for the home.
Roof position and condition
It’s a known fact that in Australia, a large north-facing section roof will generate more solar energy than other directions. Having a roof pitch of around 24 degrees also increases performance. Factors such as shade, wind and dust can all impact performance. Installing a Tractile solar roof, therefore, will help you maximise savings on your energy bill.
Sustainable living without compromising on lifestyle
There are no limits to the scale of energy production possible from a well-designed sustainable home. For instance, a correctly positioned 20kWp Tractile solar roof combined with a battery can provide enough electricity to run all the home’s appliances, lights and power and an electric vehicle 24×7, 365 days of the year, as well as generate enough hot water for showers, baths, washing machines and dishwashers along with heating the property through hydronic underfloor heating and even a pool or spa if needed.
On days when your Tractile solar roof generates enough energy to send power back to the grid, your earnings can go towards paying off the cost of installation. Over time, a sustainable and cash positive outcome is certainly possible.
When a roof can deliver multiple benefits and money savings to your household, it makes sense to make an informed decision if you are looking to replace your roof or build a new home.
Tractile Premium solar roofs are easy to install and do a lot more than just solar energy production. Tractile is rated for Category 5 cyclones, is resistant to 90mm (softball sized) hailstones, and suitable for use in bushfire prone regions (BAL-40).
