Development of novel roofing panels integrating solar heat collection and phase change storage. The provision of comfort heating for domestic and commercial buildings contributes significantly to Australia's energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. The project aims to develop a new roofing product which will collect and store solar energy for heating. The product integrates conventional roofing products into a solar collector and a heat store. Materials that melt/freeze at suitable temperatures ....Development of novel roofing panels integrating solar heat collection and phase change storage. The provision of comfort heating for domestic and commercial buildings contributes significantly to Australia's energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. The project aims to develop a new roofing product which will collect and store solar energy for heating. The product integrates conventional roofing products into a solar collector and a heat store. Materials that melt/freeze at suitable temperatures will be used for heat storage. The project involves developing a mathematical model and a prototype design. In addition to fulfilling the conventional function of roofing products including thermal and sound insulation, the prototype is intended to be aesthetically acceptable and easily compatible with current building practices.Read moreRead less