Green tech company DRI Energy has created stick-on solar panels for commercial customers with flat roofing. The “peel and stick” approach eliminates the need for brackets, but also does not generate as much energy, due to the panels not being tilted to optimize the angle of the sun. Additionally, they are more susceptible to heat damage with no room beneath them for air flow. Really makes you want to buy them, right?
Well maybe. The company hopes customers will find the lower overall price (due to less labor and racking costs) inviting. A “Stick ‘n Wire” setup might be easier for some companies to swallow — especially if the aesthetics of not using a rack system blend better with present buildings.
For more, check out DRI Energy’s website here.
[UPDATE: DRI provided additional information on the heat debate regarding their panels: "This is not true for our modules. They give up around 4% output per year when compared to standard racked mounted modules due to flat positioning (vs. tilted) and higher operating temperature (due to less air flow cooling the module), but they don’t get damaged by heat.]
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I have metal 16″ standing seam roof. I am considering stick on panels for hot water. Also can they be used on roof of car for trickle charge to batteries? Thanks, Bonnie
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[...] looks at the new “peel-and stick” solar panels and find them [...]
[...] can be literally slapped on to any flat roof. Of course, this convenience is not without sacrifice. Ecotality points out that DRI’s stickables generate less electricity than the conventional, mountable [...]