Integrated Glass-and-Metal Roof Generates Electricity and Usable Heat
German cleantech company paXos Solar has developed the paXos Multi-Energy Roof (MED), a patented glass-and-metal roofing system that combines the functions of a roof covering, photovoltaic panels and solar thermal collection in a single material solution. Instead of mounting solar panels onto a finished roof, the lightweight roof tiles become part of the building envelope itself. This integrated approach reduces material redundancy, supports easier repair and replacement, and creates a uniform architectural appearance. The project received a Green Product Award in the Building Design category.
The system comes in both flat roof tile and beaver-tail tile versions. It also includes products for heritage and listed buildings, where conventional solar panels often prove difficult to integrate.
Designed for Circularity and Easy Maintenance
Each roof tile weighs around 4.5 kg, making the system lighter than many comparable solutions. Roofers can install and replace individual tiles without tools. This speeds up installation, simplifies maintenance and supports circular construction by allowing damaged components to be replaced individually.
The integrated design also protects the system from weather, UV radiation and pests. In addition, the roof achieves A1 fire protection for the roof substructure. It also meets the IEC 61215 and IEC 61730 standards for photovoltaic performance and safety.
The roof does more than generate electricity. It also captures heat that builds up beneath the solar tiles. The system uses this thermal energy to support heating and hot water production. According to paXos Solar, this can reduce the energy demand of a heat pump by up to 20%.
Building-Integrated Solar Without Compromising Design
The Multi-Energy Roof gives architects more freedom when designing solar roofs. Designers can place active photovoltaic tiles where sunlight is strongest. They can fill shaded areas with visually matching glass or inactive modules. As a result, the roof maintains a consistent appearance across its entire surface.
The Green Product Award jury praised the project for its holistic design approach. The jury highlighted its attention to manufacturing, durability, material recyclability and lifecycle performance. It also recognised the system for creating a seamless alternative to conventional rooftop solar panels.
paXos Solar has already installed the system on detached houses, terraced homes, apartment buildings and holiday homes across Germany. The company works closely with architects, roofing specialists and research partners to develop integrated building energy systems. Besides winning the Green Product Award, paXos Solar also received the German Solar Award 2024.
Source & photos: Green Product Award / paXos Solar