Revolutionizing Solar Energy: The Etile Photovoltaic Metal Roof

Jaroslaw Markowicz's Award-Winning Design Merges Aesthetics with Sustainable Energy

Markowicz was inspired to create a photovoltaic solution that would seamlessly blend with traditional roof tiles. The result was the Etile, a product that stands out for its unique properties. Unlike current suppliers of roof-integrated photovoltaics, Etile offers photovoltaic steel tiles along with the rest of the PV equipment and installation service. This modular, easy-to-use product can be installed on almost any type of building, making it a versatile solution for sustainable energy.

The design of the Etile is based on metal roof tiles. By using traditional galvanized steel, Markowicz created an easily accessible product. Each individual module features five micro photovoltaic panels that generate energy. The steel panel can be easily separated, a feature that is crucial for the product's life cycle.

The modules of the Etile are connected in the same way as ordinary roof tiles. The only distinguishing element are the cable connections, which are hidden under the roof sheathing. Like a standard solar installation, the power line is connected to the home power grid. This design allows for a seamless integration of the photovoltaic system into the building's structure.

The Etile project was developed in Warsaw, with conceptual work starting in September 2016. After numerous prototypes and tests, the project was finally implemented in January 2020. The design process involved extensive research and development, including testing various panel sizes, material connections, and the overall look of the product on the building.

One of the main challenges faced during the design process was to create a solution that was aesthetically pleasing, quick to install, and affordable. Feedback from customers who complained about the poor aesthetics and mismatch of the size of traditional panels to the roof was instrumental in shaping the design of the Etile. The result is a product that not only looks good on the building but also generates electricity, providing a sustainable solution for energy production.

In conclusion, Jaroslaw Markowicz's Etile is a revolutionary product that merges aesthetics with sustainable energy. Its unique design and functionality have earned it the Silver A' Building Materials and Construction Components Design Award in 2020, a testament to its innovative approach to green energy. The Etile is not just a product, but a step towards a more sustainable future.