New roof system combines PV, heating and cooling

06.05.2025

Source: E & M powernews

Equatronic is presenting the Equatop Thermo PV energy roof at Intersolar Europe 2025 in Munich - a system for combined power and heat generation.

Equatronic Smart Energy GmbH from Freystadt (Bavaria) is presenting its fully integrated energy roof system at Smarter E in Munich. The product, called "Equatop Thermo PV", combines photovoltaics, heat production and classic roof functions in an industrially prefabricated system. According to the company, it is the first system to fully integrate these functions.

According to Managing Director Johannes Scherer, the roof system combines the functions of the building envelope with energy generation. "This turns every roof into a highly efficient power plant - without compromising on architecture, aesthetics or functionality," says Scherer. The aim is to achieve an unprecedented combination of efficiency and functionality for new buildings and renovations.

The central element of the system is a patented heat management system. It actively uses the waste heat from the PV modules and, according to Equatronic, simultaneously increases their efficiency by up to 15 percent. The heat generated can be fed into heating systems or hot water preparation. Alternatively, it can also be used in local or district heating networks.

Another advantage is the plug-and-play architecture: the prefabricated modules can be assembled on site in a short space of time. According to Florian Scherer, Co-Founder and Head of Marketing, installation only takes a few days. This avoids complex installation processes on the construction site.

The range of applications for the system extends from single-family homes to commercial and public buildings. For private residential buildings, extensive energy self-sufficiency is possible, while the combination of electricity and heat generation is particularly economical for industrial buildings, says Scherer. He also sees potential for larger projects such as district solutions or international applications.

According to the company, more CO₂ is absorbed than emitted over the entire life cycle. Renewable raw materials and a closed-loop recycling concept are used.

The company will be showcasing its system at Intersolar Europe 2025 in Hall C5, Stand 380B.

Author: Susanne Harmsen