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What are Roof Tile Solar Panels
Using solar panels to generate electricity for your home comes with a myriad of benefits both to you and the environment. From saving large amounts of money on your energy bills, to reducing your impact on the environment, as well as your carbon footprint, the pros far outweigh the cons. With solar panels constantly decreasing in price as well, they are becoming much more accessible.
We often get asked about the aesthetic issues of having panels and the significantly change to the appearance of your home. Whether it is you or a neighbour who feels this way, it can put a lot of people off the investment. This can be a particular issue in conservation areas of any kind as well. If this is the case, and you have faced trouble trying to get regular panels, then solar tiles might just be what you are looking for.
What are Solar Roof Tile Panels?
Of course, you may be wondering what solar tiles are and how they work. Solar tiles are small modules that can be attached to your existing roof structure and replace your current roof tiles. Once they have been installed, they have a much more natural look when compared to traditional solar panels. This is because they blend seamlessly with the roof.
The solar tiles themselves can be made either from thin film PV cells or the traditional monocrystalline cells. However, they do have slightly lower efficiency levels when compared to conventional models of solar panel, and the cost does tend to be higher. They also tend to contain a small level of solar cells, resulting in needing a larger surface area to get the same electrical generation you would from standard solar panels.
While solar tiles may seem like a premium product now, and there's only really a few companies in the UK installing them, they will soon be more prolific. With companies like Tesla mass producing their brand of solar tiles and other manufacturers moving into the market, the future is bright for solar tiles.
Solar tiles are almost invisible, which is likely to be the largest advantage of this form of solar technology. It removes the issues of having to cover your roof with solar panels, and provides the most aesthetically pleasing option. Solar tiles work just like solar panels in order to provide you with clean, free, energy.
You can receive the SEG for the excess electricity that is sent back to your energy provider. Therefore, you can save money on your electricity bills (the average ranges between 40% and 70%), and also profit from exporting the energy you don’t use.
Solar tiles can also increase the value of your property, as the demand for green energy is so high. Solar tiles are also far more durable than the traditional solar panels that you mount on your roof. Solar panels can last up to 40 years, but as they are rigid modules mounted on metal, they can be damaged by extreme weather conditions.
Solar tiles are as durable as the roof itself – making them incredibly strong and reliable. The modules help to protect the roof as opposed to damaging it. Solar tiles are a fantastic option for new buildings, and they help to come up with solutions for the reduction of wasted roof space as well as maximising solar efficiency. The process of installation for them us simple, quick, and can be done by any roofer or solar installer. Additionally, there are different types of tile to accommodate a variety of roof and tile styles.
The Advantages of Solar Tiles
- Solar tiles are almost invisible. This is probably one of the biggest advantages to this specific type of solar panel. It means that there should be no issues when it comes to covering your roof, removing the concerns about aesthetics. In fact, most conservation areas will approve solar tiles.
- Solar tiles work in the same way as solar panels to provide you with energy that is free and clean. This also means that they are eligible for the same SEG export tariffs offered by traditional solar collectors.
- Solar tiles can help to increase the value of your home. The demand for green energy is high, and as the tiles are very discreet, they are seen as more desirable than conventional solar panels.
- Solar tiles are much more durable than the conventional solar panels that you mount on your roof. While solar panels can last as long as 50 years, they are rigid modules that have been secured to your roof by mental mounts. As a result, they are more prone to damage from the wind and extreme weather conditions. Solar tiles, however, are just as durable as the roof itself. So, while they are incredibly strong and reliable, they also help to protect your roof.
- There are different types of tile that are sure to suit every style of roof.
- If you're looking at replacing your current roof tiles, or constructing a new-build property, installer solar tiles over conventional solar panels will save you money on roof tiles.
The Disadvantages of Solar Tiles
- Solar tiles and traditional shingle must be installed at the same time.
- Not every roof is able to accommodate solar roof tiles. The roof pitch, shade, and orientation may not lend itself to solar tiles.
- The initial cost is higher for solar tiles than traditional asphalt ones. At the moment, solar tiles also remain more expensive than the traditional panels, and are also slightly less efficient. However, the cost may not seem so large if you had plans to replace your current tiles already.
- Due to the high cost of solar tiles, your pay-back period could be significantly longer with solar tiles over conventional panels.
Would you like to invest in solar tiles?
Solar tiles might not be the best or most convenient option for everybody, but they are a fantastic solution for those who have plans to install a new roof, or replace and existing one, and want it to look as normal as possible and to blend in with their community, all while incorporating solar power. If you meet all of the requirements and don’t want to compromise the appearance and style of your house, but still wish to generate clean energy, this is the technology for you.
Want to Know More?
Have you found yourself interested in solar panels? If you want to know more then make sure you head to our marketplace where you can find our full range of products, each with the relevant information. Or simply give us a ring using the number at the top of this page and have a chat.
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