Tartu, Estonia-based Solarstone, which produces building-integrated solar panels (BIPV) suitable for both modern and traditional rooftops, is making plans to enter foreign markets with the support of its new investor, the Tallinn-based renewable energy company Sunly.
“Roofs and solar panels can be the same thing. Also, the solar panel may fit well architecturally with the building,” said Silver Aednik, the CEO of Solarstone. “We have combined a very traditional tiled roof with modern solar panels to provide aesthetically appealing and efficient combination.”
According to Aednik, the company has already supplied over 100 buildings with integrated solar systems in Estonia and is now ready to expand to foreign markets, with a strong focus on Scandinavia and Germany.
“We want to contribute financially as well as with our knowledge and experience to help Estonian companies be a part of global green technology revolution,” said Priit Lepasepp, the CEO of Sunly. “For us, Solarstone is an attractive investment opportunity, combining a dedicated team with an innovative cleantech product that is ready to enter foreign markets.”
Solarstone has a mission of making BIPV solar panels as common building material as concrete or wood. The solar power sector is experiencing strong growth figures worldwide. The housing industry is open to new technologies and solutions that incorporate renewable energy production into building structures. Domestic developers, architects, and homeowners who have undertaken roof renovation have already seized the opportunity to build a new roof and solar plant at the same time. Solarstone’s pilot projects have been well-received in neighbouring countries, bolstering confidence that the same experience can be replicated outside Estonia.
