GAF Energy Builds Out U.S. Solar R&D, Manufacturing Facility

GAF Energy R-and-D — The new GAF Energy facility will be a combination of R&D and manufacturing as the company continues to evolve its BIPV product.

SAN FRANCISCO — GAF Energy has leased and begun critical improvements on a 112,000-square-foot facility in San Jose, Calif. Once construction is complete, the new facility will serve as the company’s center for research and development and manufacturing, bringing traditionally off-shored solar manufacturing to the U.S.

“We’re extremely excited to have found a home for our first combination R&D and manufacturing facility. Solar roofing is the future of the industry; the research, innovation, and manufacturing for that future will start at this facility,” said Martin DeBono, president of GAF Energy. “The co-location of R&D and manufacturing is a huge benefit for the scientists pushing the envelope on what’s possible for the product, and the engineers responsible for rolling it off the line.”

The buildout of the property and its ongoing operations will result in hundreds of U.S.-based, clean energy manufacturing jobs and a solar roof product that is made in America. As part of Standard Industries and a sister company to GAF, GAF Energy brings extensive roofing manufacturing and R&D expertise to the solar industry.

“Driving the next generation of solar innovation is a top priority for our business — and we’re proud to be making this investment here in the U.S.,” said David Millstone and David Winter, co-CEOs of Standard Industries. “With this facility, GAF Energy is advancing our vision of an integrated product that’s attractive, affordable, reliable, and easily installed, so that every new roof has the option to generate solar power.”

GAF Energy empowers roofing contractors across the U.S. with a comprehensive and economical approach to solar installations. The company designed its current product to provide an attractive, low-profile alternative to rack-mounted solar panels, which are typically drilled through the roof’s shingles. The GAF Energy solar system in-market today is integrated into the roofing system, ensuring that the primary function of the roof — to protect the home from the elements — remains intact. High-efficiency solar panels optimize power output and maximize aesthetic appeal, combining robust flashing with a sleek black perimeter shield to help reduce the risk of leaks and animal intrusion.