Dow, which kicked off its U.S. launch of Powerhouse Solar Shingles in Colorado last fall, has announced the first members of the product’s authorized dealer network. The partnership with the three Colorado roofing contractors--Academy Roofing, B&M Roofing of Colorado, and D&D Roofing--marks a significant step toward widespread availability of the electricity-generating roof shingles, the company says.

The Powerhouse system, which combines a roofing shingle with a solar cell, can easily be installed by a roofer along with standard asphalt roofing materials for an integrated look. This makes the shingles an easy choice for homeowners looking for a residential solar solution that is easy to install and aesthetically pleasing, according to Dow Solar vice president Jane Palmieri. The best time to install the Solar Shingles is when a homeowner is installing a new roof.

“We designed our solar product around the principle that the only people homeowners want and need on their roof are professional roofing contractors," Palmieri said.

Expanded availability of Powerhouse shingles and its dealer network will be announced throughout Colorado and other U.S. markets in the coming months, the company says.