Sistine Solar, the maker of SolarSkin, has launched the SolarSkin Design Studio, an online platform that allows homeowners to customize the look and feel of their solar installations using Dept. of Energy-backed solar panel-attached graphics. Homeowners can design solar panels that blend in with their existing roofs, whether those roofs are made of green architectural shingles, red Spanish tiles or any other material. Homeowners will also be able to see real-time pricing information as they customize their order and choose from a variety of recommended equipment options, monitoring solutions and warranty packages.

The experience of going solar has traditionally been a frustrating one for even tech-savvy consumers. Homeowners have had few options as solar panels traditionally only come in black or blue. It also takes multiple contact points to get an estimate. The SolarSkin Design Studio introduces transparency. With just a zip code and an average monthly bill, homeowners located anywhere in the U.S. can design their system and compare the cost of going solar to their current energy bill. Sistine Solar hopes that, by offering a unique experience and custom aesthetic solutions, more homeowners will be encouraged to switch to solar.

The technology behind SolarSkin was developed at MIT and received the Dept. of Energy’s SunShot award. A film is retrofit onto solar modules, allowing homeowners to choose any color, design or pattern for their solar arrays.

“Consumers crave tailored solutions and value transparency during the buying process,” said Ido Salama, Sistine Solar co-founder and head of sales. “We’re excited to launch our SolarSkin Design Studio to offer homeowners the tools to make better-informed decisions. Solar power is incredible and we really want folks to fall in love with solar. So, we re-designed the look of the product and the feel of the buying experience.”

The SolarSkin Design Studio allows homeowners to design and order their systems from a desktop computer or mobile phone. With a $99 refundable deposit, homeowners will receive a preliminary system design using LIDAR mapping, a detailed panel layout, guaranteed production figures, a realistic rendering (where suitable image is available) and guaranteed delivery within 90 days. Just like personalizing a laptop or car purchase online, homeowners can now personalize their energy.

News item from Sistine Solar