Are solar shingles a technology for today?

Many new solar technologies are emerging along with the solar revolution. Solar shingles are one of the newest methods to introduce your home to renewable energy. According to the Solar Energy Industry Association, the U.S. reached a cumulative 53.3 gigawatts of solar power capacity in 2017, enough to power over ten million homes. For some, a 30% tax credit is available, so there is a race to get in before the credit is rescinded.

What are solar shingles?

Solar shingles are small solar panels that replace your roof's asphalt tiles to offer your home the benefits of solar power. They're based on the same photovoltaic cell technology as conventional solar panels and operate in the same manner.

How do solar shingles compare to solar panels?

Unlike traditional solar panel grids, which are usually mounted on rooftops or alongside your house, solar shingles are installed within your roof's asphalt shingles. They're the same size and shape as traditional shingles and can cover as much roof space as your home needs.
Solar shingles are normally installed when other asphalt shingles on your roof need replacing, making it easy for solar installers to assimilate your shingles into your roof's existing layout.

What are the pros of solar shingles?

Solar roof tiles are great for the environment, your home, and your utility bills just like traditional solar panels. Here are some advantages:

Reduce CO2 footprint – Utilize a clean and natural source of energy that reduces your family's carbon footprint.
Reduce energy bills – Solar shingles reduce annual energy costs, often by 35 to 65 percent.
Tax credits – Eligible homeowners who install solar power systems may receive tax credits or rebates that help offset the initial costs of installation.
Aesthetics – Unlike conventional solar panel grids that mount to your roof, solar shingles integrate seamlessly with your roof's asphalt panels. You get the benefits of a full solar installation in an unobtrusive form that doesn't compromise your home's aesthetic. Some people do not like the appearance of solar panels.

Are there cons to solar shingles?

Solar shingles do have a few drawbacks:
Cost – Shingles are a newer technology, so they're generally more expensive than conventional solar panels.
Orientation – Shingle efficiency is contingent on roof orientation. Rack-mounted grids can be installed at angles or on the ground to absorb maximum amounts of sunlight, but solar shingles are limited to the natural slope of your roof. They consequently tend to produce lower energy outputs. 

How many solar shingles am I likely to need for my house?

Solar panel energy output varies by state, by the time of day, and by the position of the panel itself. Most people want to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels as much as possible, but it's not always a good idea to go completely "off the grid". You'll still need to stay connected to your utility company to supply electricity overnight and when solar cells aren't active. If you invest in solar batteries for storage, this problem is eliminated. However, it may not be long before you can go off-grid more easily. 

Solar power is here to stay, and the sooner you explore how much you can save, the sooner you can enjoy the benefits of residential solar power. Go to HahaSmart.com and try our price checker tool. It tells you how much solar power you need, and how much you can save.

Please visit our solar blog to find out more about the benefits of going solar.