ABSTRACT
To date there are no grid-connected photovoltaic roofs in the UK despite the fact that many demonstration projects exist in other European countries. The Oxford project was begun to break through the barriers that are holding back this important new technology in the UK. One of the key barriers is the perception that photovoltaics (PVs) are not yet an economically viable technology. The superinsulated, low energy Oxford house has been designed to optimise the usefulness of the electricity generated by the roof by minimising the household loads. The PV system and construction design of the 4Kw roof PV roof have provided many interesting challenges to the Oxford team and provide an interesting insight into the problems that will face designers using PVs in the future and the potential for economic viability of PVs for the future.
