RUSSELL Roof Tiles has launched its first solar PV offer to the market as part of its commitment to sustainability. The independent manufacturer of concrete roof tiles and accessories said the launch comes with the same quality credentials and easy installation as its concrete products.
Following 18 months of research and development, the new in-roof solar PV system RussFast Solar has been designed to be compatible with most profiles of Russell Roof Tiles, offering a quality roof aesthetic for both commercial and domestic specification.
This is the latest in a line of strategic investments the company has made into its sustainability commitment over the past 10 years. Russell Roof Tiles announced its net zero 2040 target over two years ago, and the firm said it has already made ‘significant’ steps towards its goals by procuring 100% renewable electricity at all three manufacturing sites. This comes in addition to electrifying the ‘majority’ of its mobile plant fleet.
Over the past two years the company has invested over £3.25 million at the 11-acre Lochmaben plant including a £750,000 major upgrade last year, which is one of the biggest upgrades since its operation began back in 1986. The firm explained that the works improve efficiencies and speed up manufacturing and include a new and better-insulated curing chamber with a modern and improved heating system.
Russell Roof Tiles added that the launch of RussFast Solar enables it to make the most of the growing renewables market and to help meet Part L of the Building Regulations. Not just for residential projects, commercial markets are looking to decarbonise, and solar PV offers a popular choice for zero-carbon electricity, the firm added. In addition, local authorities are also looking to solar PV on public buildings and social housing.
The system features every element needed for a comprehensive in-roof array which is designed specifically to work with all Russell Roof Tiles interlocking tile profiles. The RussFast Solar system can be laid in a variety of configurations, and sits within the roof covering, offering ‘excellent’ aesthetics and ‘flexibility’ to suit all project or tile type, the firm said.
Dan Hancox, corporate sustainability and development director at Russell Roof Tiles, commented, “Our market leading offer will provide a 15-year roof system guarantee when it is installed as part of a full RussSpec, and fitted in accordance with our guidance, in addition our solar PV panels will provide a market-first 30-year performance guarantee.
“We have really focused on developing a solar PV system which can be fitted by roofing contractors in a similar way to traditional concrete roof tiles, with an interlocking system designed for quick and easy installation which mimics traditional tile laying.”
Andrew Hayward, MD of Russell Roof Tiles, added, “We are extremely excited to bring RussFast Solar to market and it is an important part of our continued development in sustainability. It is a tangible demonstration of our intent to encourage the market into reducing emissions.”
