PHOTOVOLTAIC (PV) PANELS

Of all the energy saving strategies, this one currently has a relatively long payback period. However, the cost of photovoltaic systems continues to drop, and a new generation of materials promises to make them even more affordable and efficient in the near future. Many homeowners are opting to purchase panels incrementally as they can afford them or enter into Power Purchase Agreements with companies that retain ownership of the panels. There are several local companies that sell or rent PV panels. There are two general categories of PV panels, integrated and applied. In addition, photovoltaic paint is being developed, but is not yet commercially available.

Sunslates is an example of an integrated system. These PV panels are actually roofing tiles that also act as photovoltaic cells. The company that manufactures them, Atlantis Energy Systems, originated in Switzerland but now has a California branch. It has a line of products that includes facades, roof elements, roof shingles, & Sunslates, as well as standard PV panels. These building elements are unique in their design by serving as power generators and building components at the same time. They may also act as shading elements, either opaque or semi-translucent. For glass facades, they have slightly reflecting PV panels that are specially coated. Atlantis has designed and built the first fully integrated PV-roofs (both PV-shingle and PV-shed designs), PV- façades and PV-shading systems in Switzerland. Tom has not used these yet and is concerned about the durability of the electrical connections between individual panels in the Hawaiian climate. If they hold up to long term exposure they would be a great product to manufacture locally. Check them out at www.atlantisenergy.com

Hawaii Energy Connection is a local company that offers the Kumu Kit which comes in two affordable sizes or can be custom designed for your individual needs. Government tax credits reduce the cost considerably. http://www.hawaiienergyconnection.com/kumukit/