No longer a contradiction: photovoltaics and heritage conservation
Climate protection and heritage conservation are often seen as opposites – yet in legislation, they are increasingly converging. Nevertheless, the requirements for installing photovoltaic systems on historic buildings remain stringent. With its MATCH Slate and LEVEL Up solar systems, Megasol meets these requirements and makes heritage conservation and solar energy compatible.
Heritage protection requirements
Conventional solar modules with their bluish-black colour, glossy surfaces and aluminium frames create a stark contrast to historic roofs made of slate, tile or wooden shingles. Heritage protection legislation addresses this with clear guidelines which – despite regional differences – can be summarised in three key points:
- The historic appearance is affected as little as possible.
- The overall impression of the building and its surroundings is preserved.
- The view of the building from a distance is not impaired.
Megasol in-roof systems meet these requirements because their material appearance and installation technique allow them to blend harmoniously into historic roofscapes.
LEVEL Up: Solar roofing for almost any building
LEVEL Up is available in four standard sizes, as well as in the ‘Full Black ZRM+’ (glare-free) and ‘Terracotta’ designs. Customized modules make the system suitable for large roof areas as well as complex geometries – either as a full-surface covering or a partial solution.
Power output: up to 203 Wp/m²
Surface: Full Black ZRM+, Terracotta
Hail resistance: HW5 (50 mm)
Snow load: up to 13 kN/m² (4 m of old snow)
Fire protection: BROOF(t1), BROOF(t2) in accordance with DIN EN 13501-5
Resistance to driving rain: tested in accordance with CEN/TR 15601
Warranty: 15-year Swiss product warranty, 35-year performance warranty
A listed building in Fürschwendi, SG – the matt, low-glare surface blended in with the existing Eternit shingles and served as a showcase project for the new planning permission procedures in the canton of St. Gallen.
MATCH Slate Creek Granite: A slate-effect finish for complex roof geometries
The MATCH Slate ‘Creek Granite’ design captures the look and feel of historic slate roofs. The modules are laid in an overlapping, discreet pattern – creating a seamless transition without the need for additional metalwork. The satin-finished, non-glare surface ensures an authentic slate look; the INSHAPE adaptation plate allows the system to be adapted to complex roof geometries.
Power output: approx. 180 Wp/m²
Surface: Satin-finished
Hail resistance: HW5 (50 mm)
Snow load: up to 13 kN/m² (4 m of old snow)
Fire protection: BROOF(t1), BROOF(t2) in accordance with DIN EN 13501-5
Warranty: 10-year Swiss product warranty, 25-year performance warranty
Reference: Herz-Jesu Church in Saas Fee – MATCH Slate Creek Granite blends seamlessly into the historic roofscape here.
Tip for planners and installers
An early on-site inspection with the client, the planning team and the heritage conservation authority clarifies issues relating to design, colour and connections before they become an obstacle to obtaining planning permission. Providing samples – as was done in Saas Fee or Fürschwendi – often convinces the heritage conservation authority more quickly than any argument.
Good preparation makes all the difference
Requirements vary from region to region. The following questions should therefore be clarified before construction begins:
- What is the building’s heritage classification?
- What installation options and alternative locations are available?
- What are the specifications regarding the shape, colour and size of the modules?
- Will any cables remain visible?
- What requirements apply to lightning protection and fire safety?
Megasol advises firms involved in planning and installation on selecting suitable modules or develops bespoke solutions.
Detached house in Rivaz – MATCH Slate in the ‘Terracotta’ design
Conclusion
Heritage protection and photovoltaics are not mutually exclusive: with MATCH Slate and LEVEL Up, Megasol offers sophisticated in-roof systems that blend seamlessly into any historic roofscape – from slate-roofed churches to tiled roofs. Whether you’re facing strict regulations, critical conservationists or complex roof geometries: our systems solve real planning challenges without compromising on aesthetics or planning permission. Our experts will be happy to advise you on implementation.
Important links
Switzerland
Cantonal and municipal heritage conservation agencies
Architectural heritage and the energy transition
Germany
German National Committee for the Preservation of Historic Monuments – State laws on the preservation of historic monuments
SFV – Photovoltaics and the preservation of historic monuments
Austria
Federal Monuments Office – Restoration Procedures
Energy Efficiency Standards (Download)
