A new product is set to enter the UK solar market: Solar Skin. Developed by US-based Sistine Solar, this innovative technology allows solar panels to be customised with designs that either blend into the surrounding roofscape or provide a visually striking alternative to the traditional black or blue panel appearance.
Whether you are aiming to preserve the architectural character of a listed building, reduce visual impact in a conservation area, or incorporate branding into a commercial array, Solar Skin enables bespoke visual integration without significantly reducing performance.
In this article, we explore how Solar Skin works, its practical applications, technical considerations, and indicative pricing.
Solar Skin is a patented product created by Sistine Solar, a company founded in 2014 by engineers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). With support from the US Department of Energy, the team developed a prototype and secured four patents before launching the product commercially in 2016. Until recently, Solar Skin has primarily been used in the United States but is now being introduced to the UK market.
Solar Skin is a printed film that overlays the front glass of a solar panel. The material allows light to pass through to the photovoltaic cells while simultaneously displaying an image, colour or pattern on the surface.
The application process is carried out in a controlled facility prior to installation. Once a design is selected, the panels are shipped to the application facility where the film is applied. From there, they are delivered to site for installation. Because each panel must be installed in the correct orientation to complete the design, this introduces logistical complexity and contributes to the cost premium associated with the product.
The design scope is extensive. Panels can be visually integrated into a variety of roof coverings, including slate, concrete or clay tiles. Alternatively, panels can be customised with company branding, advertisements, or artwork — suitable for commercial or public sector installations.
In residential settings, Solar Skin can help reduce the visual prominence of a solar array. For example, case studies in New Jersey and California have demonstrated effective camouflage against dark roof tiles, significantly reducing the visual contrast from street level.
Solar Skin has also been used in commercial environments to turn solar arrays into signage. Examples include wall-mounted systems that double as advertising boards and rooftop installations displaying logos or corporate branding. These use cases are particularly relevant for public-facing businesses or community organisations seeking dual-purpose installations.
In the UK, it is important to note that using solar panels as a form of advertising may require planning permission, particularly for wall-mounted or large-format arrays.
While the film does form a protective barrier over the panel glass, it is not designed as a cost-effective form of impact protection. Replacing a damaged panel remains more economical than applying the film solely for this purpose.
The discreet appearance offered by Solar Skin may be advantageous when applying for planning permission in sensitive areas. In conservation areas or on listed buildings, where aesthetics are a concern, a customised finish may improve the likelihood of approval.
The product also includes anti-glare properties, which may be beneficial when installing wall-mounted arrays adjacent to highways or public spaces where reflected light could pose a safety risk.
As with any modification to the optical surface of a panel, some efficiency loss is expected. Sistine Solar provides the following estimates based on the extent of coverage:
A design tool is currently in development to assist installers in estimating yield reduction based on the level and type of coverage.
Partial panel coverage raises questions about uniformity of light absorption. However, the entire surface is covered by the same film substrate, ensuring consistent light attenuation across the module. This avoids uneven shading issues that might otherwise trigger bypass diode activity or cause hotspots.
Where both covered and uncovered panels exist within a single system, care must be taken with string design. It is recommended that covered panels be placed on a separate string, or alternatively use microinverters, to avoid reducing the performance of uncovered panels.
For full-coverage arrays, string design is less critical, as all panels will experience similar light transmission levels.
We recommend using solar panels with advanced shade mitigation technology. Products such as the AIKO NeoStar 3 or REC Alpha series, both of which include multiple bypass diodes, offer improved performance under non-uniform irradiance.
Solar Skin is engineered to last up to 30 years, although the warranty covers the first 10 years. During this period, the manufacturer guarantees against yellowing, bubbling, or discolouration. If the film needs to be removed, it can be peeled away in a similar fashion to a car wrap, without specialist tools or solvents.
As of now, pricing is still being finalised for the UK market. However, we can offer the following guidance:
Solar Skin will not appeal to every solar customer. Those primarily concerned with financial return and system payback may not see the additional cost as justified. However, for customers where visual appearance, planning constraints, or architectural integration are key priorities, this product offers a new and highly flexible solution.
To find out more or to request a quote, contact Spirit Energy today. We can advise on design feasibility, panel selection, and integration into your wider system requirements.