SolaGreen®: The Perfect Union of Solar Power and Green Roofs
Introduction
For years, building owners and developers have faced a difficult choice: install solar panels for renewable energy or build a green roof for environmental and human benefits. At LiveRoof Global, we developed an integrated system called LiveRoof® SolaGreen® so you no longer have to choose. You can do both.
SolaGreen® combines proven solar technology with the LiveRoof® green roof platform—turning underutilized roof space into a high-performing, revenue-generating asset. With this fully integrated system, it is possible to capture the best of both worlds: the clean energy of solar power and the ecological performance of living green infrastructure. By integrating these two technologies, SolaGreen® maximizes your return on investment, reduces operational costs, increases solar-energy output and enhances your building’s contribution to the environment and community.
A Roof That Works Harder
We believe your roof should do more than absorb stormwater. With LiveRoof® SolaGreen®, your roof can be a clean energy generator and a living, breathing ecosystem... and it can still be a sponge for stormwater management.
Reduce Energy Need – The insulating and evaporative cooling benefits of LiveRoof® can decrease utility costs by 25 per cent or greater
Generate Renewable Energy On Site – Lower utility bills; depending on the type of building it may be possible to meet up to 100% of the building’s energy needs from rooftop solar panels.
Boost Solar Efficiency – Green roofs cool the surrounding air through evapotranspiration, and this can improve solar panel performance by 5–15 per cent.
Protect Your Investment – Extend roof life up to three times longer by shielding membranes from UV rays, wind, and temperature extremes. This also means you don’t have to disrupt solar energy production to replace worn membranes.
Create a Healthier Environment – Absorb stormwater, filter air, and provide habitat for birds and pollinators. Solar panels about green roofs create microclimates that facilitate greater plant and insect diversity.
SolaGreen® helps building owners save money, perform better, and make a measurable impact toward a more sustainable future.
A Smart Financial Decision
We designed SolaGreen® to be as financially strategic as it is environmentally responsible. When you invest in SolaGreen®, you may benefit from:
Federal Tax Credits – Solar Investment Tax Credit and additional incentives for U.S.-sourced materials.
Accelerated Depreciation – Allowing a faster return on your solar investment.
State & Local Incentives – Many municipalities offer grants or density bonuses for sustainable building practices.
Lower Operating Costs – Natural insulation and evaporative cooling reduce heating and cooling needs.
Increased Property Value – Sustainable buildings consistently attract buyers, tenants, and communities that value long-term resilience.
By combining our green roof expertise with solar technology, we help you multiply the financial benefits while minimizing long-term risk.
Designed for Simplicity and Performance
SolaGreen® was developed over the course of four years by our team of solar, roofing, and horticultural experts. Every detail was engineered with owners, designers, and installers in mind:
No Rooftop Penetrations – The system is ballasted in place using LiveRoof® vegetated modules and RoofStone® pavers. This means the solar system does not predispose the roof to leaking as may be the case with systems that penetrate the water proofing system.
Quick, Easy Installation – Only one wrench size is needed, with illustrated and video instructions provided.
Durable, Safe Materials – Architectural-grade aluminum and stainless-steel components are built to last, with rounded edges to protect installers and membranes.
Field Tested & Proven – Independently tested for wind loads, structural performance, and plant health.
Proper Spacing - This allows for plant growth underneath the panels and access for maintenance.
As industry consultant Dave Roodvoets, Owner of DLR Consultants, put it:
“It’s the best ballasted system I’ve seen yet.”
More Than Just a Roof Upgrade
When you choose SolaGreen®, you’re investing in more than your own building. You’re helping create broader community benefits:
Cities save on stormwater infrastructure costs.
Urban areas stay cooler with reduced heat islands.
People experience greater wellness through access to nearby green space.
Local economies thrive with new green job opportunities.
Greg Oliver of Agathon Solar & Energy Storage sums it up best:
“SolaGreen opens up a whole new PV market, especially for the environmentally conscientious client.”
Conclusion - Be Part of the Solution
At LiveRoof®, we believe sustainability is not just a trend—it’s a responsibility and a business advantage. Clients, tenants, and communities are looking for leaders who take meaningful action toward a greener future. Contact your local LiveRoof® Network Grower
With SolaGreen®, we’ve created a way for your roof to contribute to that vision—delivering measurable value for you, your building, and the planet.
If you’d like to explore the research, technology, and performance principles behind LiveRoof®, we invite you to follow our new 2026 article series, The Science behind the LiveRoof® System.
Jodi Griffin is a Business Development Specialist with LifeRoof Global.
More information
LiveRoof® SolaGreen®:
https://www.liveroof.com/solagreen/
LiveRoof® green roof:
LiveRoof® Network Grower
https://liveroof.com/contact/representatives/
The Science behind LiveRoof® System:
