Low-E Glass,Low E Windows,Insulated Glass Panels,Low-E Tempered Windows Huaian Hongrui Glass Co.,Ltd , https://www.hongruiglass.com
The new type of photovoltaic cell will integrate harmoniously with the traditional terracotta roof
In recent years, the sleek black design of solar panels has become more common on rooftops across Europe. This trend reflects a growing demand for renewable energy sources, yet in regions where traditional terracotta roofs are cherished, the appearance of solar panels is often met with resistance.
Italy, known for its iconic terracotta rooftops, has found a creative solution through Wegaplast SpA. The company has developed a plastic roof tile that integrates photovoltaic cells seamlessly into the traditional look. These tiles match the color and texture of conventional terracotta, making them an ideal choice for areas that value historical aesthetics.
Based in Toscanelladi Dozza, Wegaplast uses Styrolution’s UV-stabilized ASA copolymer, LuranS, to produce its Wegalux tiles. Each tile features a molded housing and a solar module containing two polycrystalline cells. Designed to be the same size as a standard brick tile, these products can be easily installed on both new and existing roofs.
Ugo Rigon, sales director at Wegaplast, emphasized the product's versatility: "Our Wegalux tiles are perfect for sloped or ribbed roofs where traditional terracotta is used. They allow homeowners to generate clean energy without altering the cityscape—especially in historic or scenic areas."
Styrolution, headquartered in Germany, has collaborated closely with Wegaplast to ensure the tiles can withstand Italy’s weather conditions. LuranS offers excellent dimensional stability and resistance to temperature fluctuations, making it ideal for outdoor use.
Marko Blinzler, Styrolution’s special product manager, noted, “Our materials are designed to endure long-term exposure to sunlight and harsh weather. They meet even the highest standards for surface quality.â€
Wegalux tiles are not only functional but also visually appealing. Rigon explained, “The visual impact of LuranS was a key factor in our decision. Styrolution provides the exact shades we need, allowing our solar tiles to blend perfectly with traditional roofing materials. This pre-coloring approach saves time and costs.â€
Volker Pieper, Styrolution’s business development manager for the construction market, added, “The goal is to integrate solar technology into everyday architecture. We want solar panels to be ‘invisible’ on the roof, preserving the beauty of Italian buildings while still harnessing the power of the sun.â€
One challenge in outdoor applications is color fading over time. However, ASA materials like LuranS help prevent yellowing, and Styrolution also offers UV protection solutions. A helium test simulating 10,000 hours of sunlight exposure has confirmed the material’s durability.
Although terracotta and plastic tiles age differently, the color difference between them is expected to be minimal. Pieper said, “We believe the color change will remain within acceptable limits. It’s entirely possible to place both types of tiles on the same roof.â€
He added, “After five years of exposure, the color distortion (dE value) is expected to be less than 5, which is considered very small in the CIELAB color system.â€
Looking ahead, Styrolution is working with Wegaplast to develop a second-generation Wegalux tile, aiming to improve efficiency further. The first version already performs well, generating 1 kWp from 10 square meters of roof (128 tiles).
LuranS is used across various industries, including automotive and construction. Styrolution is exploring niche applications in residential and building sectors, focusing on unique outdoor solutions still in development.