Is solar roofing a viable alternative to traditional solar panels?

Sparking consumer interest when announced by companies like Tesla, solar roofing is generally seen as an alternative to traditional solar panels, able to generate electricity and function as a roof shingle or tile at the same time.

Is a solar roof better than a conventional solar panel?

A solar roof has many potential advantages, but the technology is less mature than conventional solar panels. Mainly, the cells of solar roof products aren't as efficient as traditional monocrystalline or polycrystalline solar panels, and glaringly, the cost of a solar roof is typically much higher than a rooftop solar panel installation.

What is a 'in roof' solar panel?

‘In roof’ solar panels are very similar to ‘on roof’ panels, the only real differences being that with in roof solar panels, the panels serve a dual purpose, acting both as the roof covering and as generators of electricity. Tiles are not required under an in roof system.

How do roof-integrated solar panels work?

Technically, roof-integrated solar panels function just like traditional solar panels or solar roof tiles, using photovoltaic cells to convert sunlight into electricity. However, instead of sitting on top of the roof on visible brackets that can affect your home’s aesthetic appeal, they become a part of the roof structure itself.

Can a solar panel be used as a roof?

A complete roof can be achieved using panels or PV slates (tiles). There may be a requirement to use ‘dummy panels’ to limit the size of the solar system (e.g. to fit with the load, or if size is constrained by the local grid).

Which solar panels are best for a new roof?

GB-Sol is one of the UK’s longest-established solar panel manufacturers. Their Roof Integrated System (RIS) is suitable for both part and complete roof replacements. While their PV Slate product is designed to blend seamlessly with traditional slate roof tiles. Viridian Solar is one of the UK’s largest manufacturers of integrated solar panels.