Solar energy is now growing across Australia, and homeowners can take steps individually to reduce their carbon footprint with plenty of solar energy resources, such as rooftop solar panels. Ground-mounted solar panels are also popular for homes with more space, whilst solar shingles are also catching up in popularity.
Solar shingles: What are they?
Solar shingles are similar to your regular roof shingles, but what sets them apart is they are made from a different type of material. They are made of glass with PhotoVoltaic (PV) cells.
The PV cells on solar shingles are the semiconductors that transfer energy generated by the PV cells into electrons that becomes an electrical current that can power your home.
Solar shingles vs. solar panels
You’re probably wondering about the difference between solar shingles and solar panels. First off, these are both excellent choices that can make your home energy efficient. However, differentiating the two to determine the best choice for you is about knowing their differences.
Solar shingles may be a better option when it comes to weather resistance and durability. However, solar panels will be a better choice if you’re looking for something fast to install.
Most homeowners who choose solar shingles often place their home’s aesthetic as a higher priority. The downside here is it’s costlier to install compared to solar panels.
Energy Matters has over 17 years of experience in the solar industry and has helped over 40,000 Australian households in their journey to energy independence. Complete our quick Solar Quote Quiz to receive up to 3 FREE quotes from trusted local installers – it’ll only take you a few minutes and is completely obligation-free.
The advantages of solar shingles
Let’s dive deeper into the many benefits of solar shingles:
- Can be used in many areas: There are homes wherein solar panels won’t work for various reasons, such as limited space. Solar shingles, can be installed almost anywhere, even in areas that are hard to reach, which will let you maximise solar power for better energy efficiency.
- Minimal roof damage: Solar shingles don’t require drilling holes or mounting equipment on top of the roof. Therefore, it will not significantly impact your roof’s integrity.
- Aesthetically pleasing: As mentioned, one of the main reasons homeowners choose solar shingles are because they are aesthetically pleasing compared to solar panels. This is because they can easily blend in with the house’s design.
The disadvantages of solar shingles
Just like with other solar energy sources in Australia today, solar shingles also have their disadvantages that you should know of:
- Cost: Since solar shingles are a newer technology than solar panels, you can expect them to have a higher initial price point. In addition to this, the shingles should be compatible with your roof’s tiles, which could be costlier to fit onto the roof.
- Installation: Installation time is longer for solar shingles because it’s likely that a significant portion of the roof will need to be re-tiled with solar and non-solar tiles.
- Maintenance and repairs: Since solar shingles are still new, only a few installers and companies have products or knowledge to accommodate repairs and maintenance. Today’s top solar tiles manufacturers are Tesla, Tractile, Monier, and Sonnen.
- Efficiency: Solar shingles may provide high energy efficiency but the positioning and the number of tiles play important roles here.
Are solar tiles the better choice?
Ultimately, it all comes down to your needs and property. Homeowners moving into an existing property may find that a solar panel system is a more practical solution than solar tiles because there is no need to re-tile the roof.
On the other hand, if you’re building a new home, it may be worth considering having solar shingles on your roof instead, especially if you have plans to stay there for a long period.
We recommend seeking at least 3 solar quotes to ensure that you are getting the best deal and selecting a solar installer whom you can trust. Energy Matters has done most of the hard work for you! We have a nationwide network of trusted, local installers who are ready to contact you and provide a quote. Get up to 3 FREE quotes via our solar quote service.
