MNN - Mother Nature Network

With the availability of government incentives for both commercial and residential solar installations, businesses and consumers across the United States are taking the leap to solar power.  However, this one installation caught my eye.  A family owned ice cream parlor in Audubon, Penn., Zwahlen’s Ice Cream & Chocolate Co, has installed a new photovoltaic product on the roof of their building.  Usually, sun is the enemy of ice cream; think back to that melted cone dripping down your arm when you were five.  Now, the two are pairing up to make for a greener ice cream shop.

 

The products used on the building aren’t your typical run-of-the mill solar panels.  “The product is designed to blend seamlessly with several styles of US Tile's clay tiles, providing energy without the use of traditional solar panels that can compromise a building's roofline and curb appeal. The installation of the Sole Power Tile(TM) system preserves Zwahlen's charming Swiss chalet look.”  Source: PR Newswire

 

The Sole Power Tile system was created by Philadelphia-based SRS Energy and will soon be available in several West Coast markets.

 

Zwahlen’s will be celebrating its fifth anniversary on June 20.  If you’re in the area, stop by to see their new solar installation and pick up your free small ice cream.  For directions, call the shop at (610) 635-0115.