A photovoltaic roof over a crop storage facility can combine protection of the building with energy production. However, it should not be chosen on the basis of available roof area alone. Humidity, ventilation and the seasonal operation of equipment all affect the requirements for the entire facility. An integrated steel roof covering is an interesting option for new construction or a thorough roof renovation. It must suit the roof pitch, the structure and the conditions inside. A storage facility must maintain conditions suitable for the stored product. The roof protects against water, but its role does not end with a weathertight surface. Limiting heat loss, water vapour flow and interaction with ventilation also matter. The scope of requirements depends on the type of crops and on how the facility is operated.

A barn may offer an attractive area for a photovoltaic roof, but the building itself must be assessed first. Old timber, uneven supports and leaky flashings do not become safe simply by replacing the covering. An integrated system is worth considering as part of renovating the entire roof slope. It then allows the roof to be put in order while also producing energy, provided the structure and the way the building is used suit its requirements. The first step is to establish the condition of the structure. Check for damp, signs of biological corrosion of the timber, deformation and connections. The points where it bears on the walls are also important. The roof may look level from the yard yet have weakened beam ends or makeshift repairs hidden under the old covering.

A cold store can consume a lot of energy during sunny weather, which favours making use of the PV roof's output. This does not, however, mean that the load fully matches the operation of the cells. Refrigeration equipment also runs at night, and storage requirements are constant. An integrated roof is therefore worth considering as part of a larger plan for the facility. It allows a new covering to be combined with an on-site energy source, without separate panels above the roof slope. On warm days the cooling demand can be high. In the same period the roof can produce a considerable amount of energy. This is a favourable starting point for analysing self-consumption, that is, using the electricity on site. The assessment must, however, be based on measurements or a reliable operating plan, and not on the mere association of summer with sunshine.