Measured energy savings and demand reduction from a reflective roof membrane on a large retail store in Austin

A reflective roof is typically light in color and absorbs less sunlight than a conventional dark-colored roof. Less absorbed sunlight means a lower surface temperature, which directly reduces heat gain through the roof and air-conditioning (a/c) demand. Thus reflective roofs reduce a/c energy use, the degree to which primarily depends upon building type, level of roof insulation, plenum ventilation, a/c size and efficiency, and of course, roof albedo.