The document discusses building integrated solar hybrid roofing systems that can help achieve net zero energy and totally self-sustaining buildings. Solar thermal plays an important role by providing domestic hot water, heating buildings, and allowing energy to be stored in warmer months, with the potential to generate 2-4 times as much energy as solar photovoltaics. The document also outlines the advancement and importance of building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) in providing distributed generation, energy independence, national security benefits, and helping with central grid concerns, water collection/purification, and energy storage technologies.