Steel building products manufacturer Catnic has this week launched the Catnic SolarSeam photovoltaic (PV) solution for standing seam roofs.
Catnic SolarSeam consists of a flexible solar laminate bonded to the Catnic Urban standing seam roofing panel, delivering efficient renewable energy without the traditionally highly visible frames.
Catnic SolarSeam panels can be installed on roof pitches down to five degrees for true design flexibility.
Launched during a press event at The Building Centre in London this week, SolarSeam will be supplied as a complete kit of parts, including the panels, flashings and fixings.
Catnic SolarSeam uses Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) solar technology. The MCS Certified low-profile CIGS cells are made up of multiple diodes, meaning they have high ambient light performance high shade tolerance.
This means that more energy is captured, even on cloudy days, and homeowners would not restricted to installation on south facing roofs. Catnic stated that for monocrystalline panels shading reduces energy production by as much as 80%, while for CIGS panels it is as little as 10%. It said CIGS cells are also lighter, more flexible and more resistant to damage, cracking and physical impacts.
Amanda Hinks-Edwards, business manager at Catnic, said: “With the target for a 68% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from 1990 levels by 2030, renewable energy, and solar in particular, has never been more important. Recent indications from the government suggest that solar panels could be mandatory on all new homes from 2027 and with a target to build 1.5 million new homes within this parliamentary term, the expansion of residential solar could be considerable.
“Catnic SolarSeam therefore provides an ideal solution for new and refurbishment projects that not only delivers excellent solar performance but also allows design flexibility and uncompromised aesthetics. It also represents an opportunity for roofing professionals with skills in the installation of standing seam roofing to expand their offering to customers.”
SolarSeam has a 25-year Confidex Home Guarantee on the Catnic Urban roof substrate as well as a 10-year solar product guarantee. The performance of the solar is also covered by a 25-year guarantee, the company added.
