Integrated photovoltaic roof uses low carbon-emission steel for aesthetics and clean energy

BP2, a leading manufacturer of roofing solutions for residential construction, recently launched Europe’s first integrated photovoltaic steel roofing solution. Known as SOLROOF, the solution incorporates BP2’s FIT VOLT panels which will be manufactured solely with XCarb^® recycled and renewably produced organic coated steel from ArcelorMittal’s Granite^® range. The steel is produced using a minimum of 75-percent scrap steel and 100-percent renewable electricity at ArcelorMittal Sestao (Spain). By using XCarb^® recycled and renewably produced steel, BP2 has created one of the most environmentally friendly roofing solutions available today. It’s also aesthetically pleasing as the solar panels are incorporated into the roof.

1. BP2’s FIT VOLT photovoltaic panels are made of XCarb^® recycled and renewably produced steel from ArcelorMittal. 
2. Wiring is incorporated into the SOLROOF for ease of installation.
3. Panels are linked together in the SOFROOF system to create a watertight, energy generating roof.  

“SOLROOF is an integrated photovoltaic roofing system developed in response to growing demand for clean energy while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing roof,” explains Paweł Musiał, Deputy Chief Sales Officer at BP2 Group. “The panels are made from XCarb^® recycled and renewably produced steel from ArcelorMittal. This product contributes significantly to lowering the carbon footprint of construction, in line with European Union requirements for low CO₂ emissions.”

The combination of innovative technology and integrated photovoltaic panels ensures the seamless integration of clean energy generation in the built environment. SOLROOF is a marked advance on typical photovoltaic installations with their visible mounting structure and cabling.

Excellent aesthetics and green energy

SOLROOF is an integrated roofing solution which generates clean energy and adds to a building’s aesthetics 

One of the distinguishing features of the SOLROOF system is the colour matching of the FIT VOLT panels with other components of the roof. “This ensures excellent aesthetics,” says Paweł Musiał. “The high visual quality of the solution is ensured by the consistent repeatability of the colour, its high corrosion resistance, and the guarantee provided by BP2.”

The area covered by the SOLROOF photovoltaic system can be tailored to meet the specific electricity consumption needs of each house. BP2 provides an intuitive online calculator which helps homeowners and architects calculate the minimum area of the roof that should be covered by the SOLROOF system. The remaining area of the roof can be covered by matching FIT panels from BP2 which do not contain solar cells.

Low carbon-emission steel plays key role

ArcelorMittal Europe and BP2 have a long history of cooperation which dates from the early 2000s. “Over the years, we have completed numerous projects together and developed a strong mutual trust,” says Paweł Musiał. “It was a natural decision to work with ArcelorMittal on our latest innovation, the SOLROOF integrated photovoltaic roof.”

“It is an honour to be able to support our longstanding partner BP2 in their mission to reduce CO₂ emissions in their supply chain,” says Tomasz Plaskura, CMO East Europe for ArcelorMittal Europe – Flat Products. “XCarb^® recycled and renewably produced steels are a powerful example of the role low carbon-emission steel can play in the creation of a renewable energy infrastructure. That is required – at scale – both here in Europe and globally.”

As BP2’s strategic partner, ArcelorMittal has played a crucial role in the development of the SOLROOF integrated photovoltaic roof explains Paweł Musiał: “The visual features of the steel provided by ArcelorMittal are immediately apparent, such as colour consistency and repeatability. Other features are not so obvious, but are equally important. For example, the FIT VOLT panels are made from XCarb^® recycled and renewably produced steel which has excellent performance characteristics that perfectly match the needs of our innovative solution. The steel also aligns with our goal of minimising our carbon footprint.”

The SOLROOF system is available to customers throughout Europe notes Paweł Musiał: “SOLROOF meets EU standards and has passed rigorous safety tests. This ensures safe and unrestricted installation. The rules covering the installation and use of the SOLROOF are the same as for other photovoltaic solutions.”