Tractile’s leading-edge solar PV and thermal integrated roof helped Team UOW’s Desert Rose House place second overall in the prestigious Solar Decathlon Middle East 2018. The Desert Rose House also placed first in the Innovation category, amidst a highly competitive field of 15 entries.

The Solar Decathlon is an international competition that challenges collegiate teams to design, construct and operate solar powered houses that are sustainable, stylish and cost-effective.

The Desert Rose House features a 10.4kWp system, making it a net-positive energy house by producing more energy than is consumed. Tractile’s 4-in-1 system of electricity, hot water, roof tile and insulation came into its own in the hot desert sun, with the water running through the tiles not only providing thermal energy for hot water requirements, but also adding extra cooling effects to the interior. This thermal technology increases the efficiency of the solar cells by 7%-12%, compared with traditional solar performance, which declines as the temperature rises.

As installation manager, Brendan Banfield said, “One of the best parts about the Tractile system is the quick installation time.”

Tractile’s unique and secure hook and batten system is simple to install and is cyclone category 5 rated, withstanding 280km/h winds. The sleek slate-like design aesthetic and large format, low profile tiles easily accommodate Desert Rose’s modern design with a low roof pitch of 10 degrees.

Suitable for coastal (and desert) conditions, Tractile’s tiles are made from a non-corrosive, lightweight and durable composite material, comprising fibreglass, resin and fire retardant. The 1050mm x 650mm tiles can easily be lifted with one hand and accommodate a 250kg point loading.

“We are extremely happy with our BIPV-T system and are proud to show it off to the juries and public touring through the Desert Rose,” Brendan added.

The Desert Rose House subsequently returned to the University of Wollongong’s Innovation Campus, where it was re-assembled and made available for viewing.

“We congratulate Team UOW on their outstanding performance and are proud to have supported them to such an amazing finish,” Tractile director Bertio Terpstra said.

Architecture & Design Team

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