Renewables
Heliup and Holcim launch lightweight solar roofing system
French manufacturer Heliup has partnered with Holcim brand Elevate to introduce a combined lightweight photovoltaic and waterproofing solution for commercial roofs.
Key points
- The Solar Light TPO product combines Heliup modules with Holcim waterproofing membranes.
- The system weighs 7 kg per square meter and requires no roof penetrations.
- Heliup aims to expand production following recent funding rounds.
What happened
French solar module producer Heliup has teamed up with Elevate, a Holcim Group waterproofing brand, to introduce a new rooftop offering named Solar Light TPO. According to pv magazine, the product integrates Heliup's Stykon photovoltaic modules with Holcim's UltraPly TPO waterproofing membrane.
The installation weighs 7 kg per square meter, which is considerably lighter than conventional setups that typically range between 15 kg and 20 kg per square meter. The mounting approach avoids roof penetrations, ballast, and extra rails.
Why it matters
Holcim representative Jean-Luc Roudaut explained to pv magazine that the design allows solar installations on flat roofs previously deemed unsuitable, including commercial, logistics, and industrial buildings. The setup accommodates various configurations such as pitched, curved, and sawtooth roofs with slopes reaching up to 100%.
The product holds a French technical assessment known as an Enquête de Technique Nouvelle, alongside a Broof (t3) fire rating. Heliup technical director Julien Gaume noted that the technical assessment permits solar panels to be installed up to two years after laying the membrane, giving project developers flexibility during renovations.
What comes next
Earlier in the year, Heliup secured €16 million to scale up its lightweight solar technology. The company operates a factory in Le Cheylas, France, capable of producing up to 100 MW annually, following an expansion supported by the European Union's Innovation Fund.
Original reporting
This article draws on the following reports. Read them in full on the publishers’ sites.
Context from CEII
Renewables are the fastest-growing part of the world’s energy system. The COP28 goal is to triple capacity by 2030, and solar mini-grids are the fastest route to power for millions of people without electricity.
27.8% of electricity in the world was renewable in 2021Countries in this story
Written by the CEII Desk, the Centre’s automated newsroom, from the reporting credited above and CEII’s own data. Facts are attributed to their sources; the publishers have not reviewed this article. Spotted an error? Tell our editors.
