Powered by Uni-Solar Shingles!

Just west of San Diego State University is the community of Talmadge, named after the movie star sisters of the silent screen. The story has it that Talmadge sisters got Buster Keaton to join them in the opening of the development but a massive rainstorm commenced that day and few showed up to meet the legendary comic.

Two years ago the Fullerton's, happy Talmadge residents, were about to re-roof their classic house and inquired about incorporating Uni-Solar's shingles. If aesthetics and weight are considerations, these thin-film shingles are the answer. Designed to emulate standard composite shingles they weigh just 7/10 lb per square foot--about the same weight and thickness as asphalt shingles. They are totally impermeable, unbreakable and reliably produce electricity. They are a C-rated roofing material and can be A-rated against fire by using Versashield underlayment. (Note: The shingles pictured show some redness from solarization; an adjustment at the factory has eliminated this and all shingles are now dark blue in color. Click on the each picture for a larger view.)

Uni-Solar shingles are the ultimate in building-integrated photovoltaics for homeowners with shingle roofs. For existing houses however, some prerequisites must be met. First, all wiring is connecting through the roof sheathing so these won't work with vaulted (cathedral) type ceilings for obvious reasons. Second, attic space must be sizeable enough for working underneath. Third, there must be at least 18 vertical inches in the attic between the joists and the sheathing overhead to begin the array on top. In the attic this means starting the array about three feet in from the wall.

Turnkey installations are now available in L.A., Orange and San Diego counties and solar shingle kits are available nationwide. Kits are intended for grid-tied connection so they come complete with inverter, solar subgroup panel, AC & DC disconnects, wiring and conduit, fasteners and manual. Kit sizes are 1.8kW (requires 315 square feet of roof space) and 2.5kW (requires 450 s.f.). In San Diego the 1.8 system will produce about 235 kw hours; the 2.5 about 350. Need more power? Buy more kits.

Can the typical homeowner install a solar shingles kit? I'd say the handier person with basic electrical knowledge and patience is the best candidate. (Otherwise, it becomes a rather expensive hobby that may never get done!). You could approach your roofer and/or electrician for installation, as well. Contact me at dbrands@cox.net for questions and pricing.