The most basic definition of a photovoltaic solar shingle is a solar panel that is configured as a roof shingle that is integrated into a conventional asphalt type shingle roof. Recent advances in the efficiency of solar shingles or tiles have also led to the development of solar shingles that will integrate into shake, concrete, tile and slate roofs as well. They look a lot like a normal asphalt type shingle and protect your roof from rain like a conventional shingle but have the added bonus of being able to convert solar energy into electrical energy for your home.
What Types of Solar Panel Shingles Are There?
There are currently two basic types of photovoltaic solar shingles used to produce home solar power. Traditional silicon solar cells and the newly developed copper-indium-gallium-selenide (CIGS) thin film photovoltaics.
- Silicon Solar Shingles
Silicon solar shingles are very much like a traditional solar panel. They are rigid and, in a frame, yet made thin and proportional to conventional roofing materials and are installed in line with existing roofing materials.
- CIGS Solar Shingles
CIGS photovoltaic roof shingles utilize the newest thin film technology for producing home solar power. CIGS are able to be made into more flexible and lighter weight shingles that are able to blend into an existing or new roof.
Although the solar shingle industry is still very young, the first were produced in 2005, continued improvement and growth is guaranteed.
Why Solar Panel Shingles Instead of Solar Panels?
The biggest reason people use solar shingles rather than solar panels is a matter of aesthetics. Solar shingles appear more like a conventional roof which some people prefer over a roof mounted solar panel that is installed on a mounting system that is typically elevated off of the roof surface.
In some cases, a home owners association or community governance group may demand a consistent look to all homes and might consider the look of roof top solar panels to be unacceptable, in such a situation a solar shingle system would probably be an acceptable compromise.
Solar shingles are versatile and lightweight, making them simple to install. When it pertains to integrating them with popular asphalt shingles, the incorporation is virtually seamless; you can hardly discriminate in between one shingle and another, especially on roof systems that are dark in color. In truth, they tend to look better on darker roofs.
Aesthetic:
Not just are solar roofing system shingles aesthetically pleasing compared to the old, large solar-powered technology, they are likewise economically useful. They can save homeowners on energy expenses by increasing their house's energy effectiveness. House owners may even be qualified for specific solar tax credits.
Effectiveness:
These tiles are made from thin sheets of solar cells. It is thought about to be less efficient than the solar panels which consist of big silicon-based modules. But these tiles can be used in areas where it is hard to install photovoltaic panels. It can be used to heat up an entire house. The efficiency of these tiles depends upon the shading, roof orientation and the exposure to solar power. It is for that reason rather crucial to think about these truths before installing shingles on the roofing.
Sturdiness:
Solar roofing system tiles have actually an increased life expectancy of thirty years. Many of these tiles are developed in such a way that it can be replaced whenever essential. It also secures the roof products and insulation to produce electricity in an appropriate way. There are several businesses that use warranties and installation help.
Installation
Solar shingles are used with an existing power grid to guarantee that your home is powered even when there is no sun. In the fortunate case that you produce more power than you really use, you might have the option of offering it back to the power company. Solar shingles are known for their ease of installation, they can only be installed by certified roof professionals who are licensed and knowledgeable in the industry.
In addition to a licensed roof company, you will also require an electrical expert to hook whatever up to your electrical system for you. Usually, you can expect them to install an inverter, which will convert the produced electrical current to basic A/C power.
With the rising cost and non-availability of other kinds of energy, it is quite vital to use eco-friendly energy.
It is important to choose brands that are reputable with the sale of photovoltaic panels and shingles to take full advantage of benefits.
Although the preliminary cost of installing these shingles straight into the existing roofs can be quite costly however it produces efficient results in the long run.
Disadvantages of Solar Power Shingles
- The cost of solar shingles is more than for conventional solar panels.
- The roof needs to be south facing and have an optimum pitch to maximize electricity production for when the sun is at its highest in the sky. This angle is dependent upon your location.
- Solar panels need to be clear of dust and debris but a roof installation will make access more difficult. Solar power shingles are durable but cannot support the weight of a human.
- These shingles are susceptible to hail and damage from strong winds. Home insurance may be higher.
Important note to keep in mind
Solar shingles are installed in place of conventional shingles and therefore are subject to the orientation of your roof. Roofs are not built to maximize solar exposure or photovoltaic efficiency which can reduce the amount of electricity produced by your roof top solar system. This lack of efficiency can be overcome by increasing the size of the area covered with solar shingles. Unfortunately, increased coverage also increases cost as well as lessening of aesthetic gains. Traditional roof top solar panels can be tilted and aimed to perfectly capture the sun's energy which leads to smaller area coverage and more efficient power production.
