Low Tech Solutions: The Solar Powered Kettle

Um! A solar-powered kettle at the Drepung Monastery outside Lhasa, in Free Tibet.

Dow Powerhouse Solar Powered Roof Tiles

The DOW POWERHOUSE Solar Shingle (roof tiles) integrates low-cost, thin-film CIGS photovoltaic cells into a proprietary roofing shingle design, which represents a multi-functional solar energy generating roofing product.

Dow Chemical's DOW POWERHOUSE Solar Shingle has been named one of "The 50 Best Inventions of 2009" by TIME magazine. "The introduction of the DOW POWERHOUSE Solar Shingle exemplifies Dow's commitment to delivering innovative solutions to the world's most critical challenges," said Jane Palmieri, Managing Director of Dow Solar Solutions.

"This groundbreaking technology will make affordable renewable energy a reality now and for future generations. Dow is proud to be recognized by TIME magazine - a strong testimonial to the power of our chemistry and science to deliver sustainable solutions."

The DOW POWERHOUSE Solar Shingle integrates low-cost, thin-film CIGS photovoltaic cells into a proprietary roofing shingle design, which represents a multi-functional solar energy generating roofing product. The innovative product design reduces installation costs because conventional roofing shingles and solar generating shingles are installed simultaneously by roofing contractors - no specialised skills or knowledge of solar array installations are required.

"Products like the DOW POWERHOUSE Solar Shingle demonstrate what the innovation engine of the new Dow can do," said David Parrillo, Senior R and D Director for Dow Solar Solutions.

"Dow's innovation pipeline is robust and will allow us to continue to develop new building related photovoltaic materials and solutions. The collaboration with Caltech is projected to keep affordability and accessibility at the forefront of Dow's solar photovoltaic product lines and is another example of how Dow's leadership and innovation will further unlock the power of the sun for the masses."

The DOW POWERHOUSE Solar Shingle systems are expected to be available in limited quantities by mid-2010 and projected to be more widely available in 2011, putting the power of solar electricity generation directly and conveniently in the hands of homeowners.