ArcelorMittal has inaugurated its Helioroof production line in Contrisson, France, introducing a new roofing solution that integrates steel panels, thermal insulation, and solar cells in a single product. The company says the system delivers significantly lower carbon emissions compared with conventional roofing options.
The ready-to-install modules are custom-made in lengths of up to 12 metres and can generate up to 2.1 kWp per unit, claimed to be a world record in both size and power. Helioroof weighs about half as much as a traditional roof with added solar panels and has a carbon footprint 25pct lower than standard insulated steel roofs.
Manufactured using ArcelorMittal steel, including its XCarb recycled and renewably produced grades, the panels consist of two steel sheets with a thermal insulation layer in between, and solar cells directly integrated into the top sheet. The product and its production process are covered by 15 patents, reflecting five years of development work in Europe.
Commercial production has begun, with initial projects covering 1,500 square metres, including an urban brewery in Liege, two industrial halls in France’s Haut-Rhin and Meuse regions, and a low-energy residential building in the Marne region.
The Contrisson facility, operated by ArcelorMittal Building Solutions, may expand further based on market demand.
