What about solar shingles?

Many new solar technologies are developing along with the solar revolution. Solar shingles are one of the newest ways 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 For most consumers, a 30% tax credit is available, so there is a race to get in before the credit is rescinded.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 miniature solar panels that replace your roof's asphalt tiles to give your home the benefits of solar power. They're based on the same photovoltaic cell technology as standard solar panels and operate in the same manner.

How do solar shingles compare to solar panels?

Unlike regular solar panel grids, which are usually installed 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 roof 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 simple for solar installers to assimilate your shingles into your roof's existing layout.

What are the pros of solar shingles?

Solar roof tiles are excellent 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 earn 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 combine seamlessly with your roof's asphalt panels. You get the benefits of a full solar installation in an inconspicuous form that doesn't compromise your home's aesthetic. Some people do not like the appearance of solar panels so solar roof tiles are the ideal solution in those cases.

Are there cons to solar shingles?

Solar shingles do have a few drawbacks:

Cost – Shingles are a newer technology, so they are 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 receive maximum amounts of sunlight, but solar shingles are limited to the natural slope of your roof. They tend to produce lower energy outputs as a result.

How many solar shingles will I need for my home?

Solar panel energy output differs by state, by the time of day, and by the position of the panel itself. Most people want to decrease 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 energy 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. But there are so many reasons people feel good about installing solar panels. Now, with solar becoming such an excellent investment, the motivations are more financial than environmental for many solar customers.

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

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