Solar Roofing
Solar Roofing Innovations Offer a Look at What’s Next
Solar roofing continues to evolve as manufacturers look for ways to integrate energy generation more directly into the roof system
Solar roofing continues to evolve as manufacturers look for ways to integrate energy generation more directly into the roof system. Recent developments range from solar shingles designed for conventional residential applications to photovoltaic components built into insulated metal panels and emerging flexible solar materials.
For North American roofing contractors, these products offer an early look at where the market may be headed. The following four products and concepts highlight some of the latest approaches shaping the next generation of solar roofing.
Photo: Certainteed
CertainTeed Introduces Landmark PWR Solar Roofing System
CertainTeed has introduced Landmark PWR, a building-integrated photovoltaic roofing system that combines residential solar generation with the appearance and functionality of an asphalt shingle roof. The system uses frameless, 85-watt solar shingles that install directly to the roof deck and feature 24 half-cut monocrystalline cells with 21.1% cell efficiency. Each shingle also incorporates two bypass diodes to minimize power losses from localized shading.
Landmark PWR pairs with CertainTeed's Protect FR self-adhering underlayment, which provides fire and weather protection and enables a Class A fire rating over combustible roof decks. Designed with roofing contractors in mind, individual solar shingles can be removed and replaced without disturbing surrounding roofing materials. The system is also compatible with third-party microinverters and power optimizers. CertainTeed backs Landmark PWR with 25-year limited power and workmanship warranties. Availability is scheduled to begin Nov. 1, 2026.
Photo: The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research
TNO Develops Flexible Perovskite Solar Roof Tile
The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research, or TNO, has developed a flexible perovskite photovoltaic module that can be integrated onto a curved roof tile, demonstrating a potential new approach to building-integrated solar. Developed with ASAT B.V., the concept applies a flexible perovskite solar module on foil to a composite roof tile. The individual modules reached efficiencies of up to 13.8%, while the finished curved roof tile retained 12.4% efficiency.
According to TNO, it is the first electrically functioning solar roof tile concept based on flexible perovskite solar cells. The technology is designed for roll-to-roll production, which could eventually enable lightweight solar foils to be manufactured at scale and incorporated into roofing and other building surfaces that aren't well suited to conventional rigid solar panels. TNO launched spinout Perovion Technologies in March 2026 to advance flexible perovskite technology toward industrial production and commercialization.
Photo: ArcelorMittal
ArcelorMittal Integrates Solar Into Insulated Steel Roofing
ArcelorMittal Building Solutions' Helioroof combines an insulated steel roofing panel and photovoltaic generation into a single factory-manufactured building component. Helioroof incorporates TOPCon silicon solar cells directly into a PIR-insulated steel sandwich panel. Custom modules can measure from 2 to 12 meters long and deliver between 307 Wp and 2,148 Wp, with the solar laminate producing up to 200 Wp per square meter.
Depending on insulation thickness, the complete panels weigh approximately 13.5 to 17.5 kilograms per square meter. ArcelorMittal says the integrated design can be installed 40% faster than traditional insulated roofs with separately installed solar panels and adds only 2.5 kilograms per square meter for solar generation.
Electrical connections are located inside the building, eliminating exterior roof cabling. Commercial production began at ArcelorMittal's Contrisson, France, facility following the production line's October 2025 inauguration. Initial projects include industrial buildings, a brewery and a residential project.
Photo: ML System
ML System Launches PhotonRoof Photovoltaic Roof Tiles
Poland-based ML System has introduced PhotonRoof, a building-integrated photovoltaic roofing system that gives architects and building owners more aesthetic options than conventional rooftop solar. PhotonRoof combines photovoltaic generation and weather protection in tiles designed to integrate with conventional roofing. The portfolio includes Modern and Vintage styles along with finishes intended to replicate materials such as slate, wood and copper, allowing the technology to be considered for residential, commercial and architecturally sensitive projects.
Depending on configuration, PhotonRoof modules range from small individual tiles to modules measuring up to 1,828 by 465 millimeters. The highest-output Modern configuration reaches up to 136 Wp per square meter. Matching passive tiles and edge components can be used around dormers, valleys, chimneys and other roof details to maintain a consistent appearance.
The system has been tested for conditions including hail and high winds and carries a 30-year manufacturer performance warranty. PhotonRoof can also connect with ML System's building energy-management platform for monitoring, load management, battery optimization and remote diagnostics.
Looking for a reprint of this article?
From high-res PDFs to custom plaques, order your copy today!
