2010 International Builders' Show Product Preview: Dow Solar Solutions Powerhouse Solar Shingles

Dow Solar Solutions has introduced Powerhouse Solar Shingles, which it claims can generate enough electricity to cut the power you have to buy by 40 to 60 percent.

The Powerhouse Solar Shingles can be nestled amid ordinary asphalt shingles, says Dow. These photovoltaic solar shingles link together so that the thin cells within each shingle can convert the sun's rays to DC current, which gets channeled to an inverter box that converts it to AC current, according to the manufacturer.

A conventional roofer can install the shingles, says Dow, though you'll have to hire an electrician to put in the inverter box.

The shingles are pricey—a cluster of 200 to 400 shingles needed for a typical installation costs about $25,000. Note that the Powerhouse shingles could qualify for federal, state, and local utility tax credits and/or rebates.

Learn more about Powerhouse Solar Shingles in the video report by Bob Markovich, editor of the Consumer Reports Home franchise. And check out our 2010 International Builders' Show coverage via our Twitter page, blog posts, and videos.

—Gian Trotta

Essential information: Check our buyer's guides to roofing shingles and solar water heaters.