Cooling to Produce More: The Alliance of Cool Roof and Photovoltaics

Building energy renovation is much more than just an economic or environmental issue—it is a paradigm shift. In this silent revolution, one technology stands out: thermoreflective coatings, also known as Cool Roofs when reduced to simple heat-resistant paint. Simple, effective, and accessible, they offer undeniable thermal advantages. But there is a way to amplify their impact even further: by combining them with photovoltaic panels. Because while reflecting light helps reduce temperature, it can also optimize solar energy production. And this is not just a hypothesis but a physical reality based on the albedo effect. So why settle for a roof that merely cools when it can also boost your energy independence?

Cool Roof and Photovoltaics: A Winning Synergy

1. A Reflective Roof, Better Solar Production

The albedo effect is simple: the more a surface reflects light, the more energy it redirects to its surroundings. In the case of a roof coated with thermoreflective paint, this means that instead of absorbing heat, part of the solar radiation is sent back to the sky… and another part to the underside of photovoltaic panels. The result? The panels capture more diffuse light and increase their electricity production. Studies show that this effect, achieved with reflective white paint, can improve installation efficiency by approximately 8% for monofacial panels and around 20% for bifacial ones—significant gains at a time when every kilowatt counts.

2. Controlled Temperature, Optimized Performance

Photovoltaic panels are paradoxical: they need sunlight but hate excessive heat. Beyond a certain temperature (usually around 25°C), their efficiency decreases. A dark roof can reach extreme temperatures, often exceeding 70°C in summer, drastically reducing the effectiveness of solar panels. By applying a cooling coating, the roof surface temperature is reduced by 50%, allowing the panels to operate in optimal conditions and maximize their output.

An Ecological and Economic Alliance

The combination of these two technologies is not just about energy optimization—it addresses broader global challenges.

• Lower Energy Costs: Less heat in the building means less air conditioning, leading to reduced electricity consumption. Coupled with improved solar production, this contributes to true energy autonomy.

• Mitigation of Urban Heat Islands: A city where roofs are covered with Cool Roof coatings and solar panels is a cooler city, helping to limit heat peaks during summer.

• Accelerated Energy Transition: By maximizing the efficiency of solar installations, the return on investment is faster, encouraging the adoption of renewable energy solutions.

Towards a Smarter and More Sustainable Future

Today, we have the technical and economic means to dramatically improve the energy efficiency of our buildings. Coating a roof with a thermoreflective solution is not just about comfort—it is a strategic decision that can transform an ordinary building into an ultra-efficient energy generator.

Nature offers us its physical laws; it is up to us to use them wisely. By combining Cool Roof technology with photovoltaic panels, we are not just cooling our rooftops—we are transforming them into optimized solar power stations. The energy transition is no longer just a dream: it is within reach of a paintbrush and photovoltaic cells.

By Joël Kohli, Chief Operating & Sales Strategy

www.climacoolor.ch/en