
Terracotta Solar Rooftile
Invisible photovoltaic solution for ancient sites
10 May 2023
Invisible Solar technology has been developed by Dyaqua, an italian family-run business, to bring solar energy inside historic towns and on heritage buildings. A special surface, that reproduce aesthetic of terracotta or other building materials while transparent for sun rays, allows solar cells to function even if totally integrated.
Monocrystalline solar cells under a terracotta layer
Each solar panel is not just a photovoltaic panel, but an active architectural element with multiple functionality. It is handcrafted and very resistant. In this way, the surface hides and protects the built-in photovoltaic cells.
The module is monolithic and consists of a non-toxic and recyclable polymer compound in which monocrystalline solar cells are embedded. It is processed in a way that promotes photon absorption. A special surface is opaque to the eyes, but transparent to the sun’s rays.

Due to the manual production method, the modules are very similar, but never identical. The slight differences create a realistic effect that makes the bricks particularly suitable for cultural objects. The roof tiles are always manufactured to order.
Solar roof tiles with terracotta aesthetics have been mentioned by the Italian Ministry of Heritage, Activities and Tourism (MiBACT) as a solution to improve energy efficiency in cultural heritage. The first Invisible Solar installation has been made on House of Vettii inside the Pompeii Archaeological Park as a pilot project in 2018.
image credit: Dyaqua
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