Imagine a roof that’s not just beautiful but also generates clean energy. The future is here, and it’s powered by Tesla’s innovations.
Recently, Tesla has introduced the SR72T1 solar tiles, which deliver 22% more power than previous models, maintaining Tesla’s edge in solar innovations. In 2016, Tesla unveiled its Solar Roof, a product where aesthetics meet innovation. By 2020, production increased, featuring glass solar tiles integrated with Tesla’s Powerwall and Inverter to offer a renewable energy solution for power outages and promotes sustainability. Moreover, Tesla’s Gigafactory in Texas is set to host the world’s largest solar roof, expected to produce a remarkable 30 megawatts of power.
How does Tesla’s Solar Roof work?
When sunlight hits the photovoltaic (PV) tiles of solar roof, it is absorbed by the solar cells producing electric current. This direct current (DC) is sent to solar inverter converting it into alternating current (AC) which can be used for powering home. The excess energy which is not used by home is either stored in Powerwall or sent to the power grid. In some instances, the excess energy sent to power grid can be credited and applied towards the future utility bills through net energy metering (NEM).
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Ingenious Technology behind Tesla’s Solar Roof
We’ve analyzed key patents to reveal the engineering marvels which transform the roof into a power plant. Read the summary below and discover the ingenious innovations behind this groundbreaking technology!
In 2018, Tesla published patent, US20180130921A1, which contributes to the seamless appearance of solar panel arrays through micro louvers. The image below is the representation of the micro louvers used in solar panels.
The patent, US11451188B2, details the design for building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems. Take a look at the images below showcasing the textured patterns on glass tile surface and the circuit diagram for wiring of PV roof tiles to optimizer for BIPV systems.
The features of the solar roof tile is described in the patent, US11431282B2, which includes the front cover, backsheet and photovoltaic structures. The different layers and components of the solar roof tile can be observed in the image below.
The patent, US11431280B2, discloses some of the technology behind the visual appeal of the roof tile. The roof tiles with different thin-film coatings can be observed in the image given below.
This glimpse into the world of solar energy innovations highlights the exciting potential of this technology for a sustainable future. However, Tesla is not alone in this market; competitors such as SunPower and CertainTeed offer their own versions of solar roofing, each with unique features and efficiencies. As further innovations emerge and evolve, it will be fascinating to see how technological marvels like Tesla Solar Roof shape the landscape of solar roofing.
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