Building Integrated Photovoltaics or BIPVs, solar panels that look like shingles, tiles or slate, have made a comeback lately. Why? Because the tech is better, and the cost is lower.
Solar panels are increasing in popularity, with 2020 alone seeing a 43% increase in installations from 2019–a new record. By 2030, solar panel installations are expected to quadruple, making it clear solar panels are here to stay.
For some people however, the aesthetic impact of installing solar panels on their roofs is still a step too far.
For those turned off by the sheen of flat panels, however, building-integrated photovoltaics ( BIPVs ) do away with front-and-center disposition of solar panels on roofs, allowing building owners to generate solar energy more discreetly.
In this article, I will break down exactly what BIPVs are, how much they cost, which are the best BIPV systems, and more. First, here’s a quick table of contents:
What are BIPVs?
Building-integrated photovoltaics are, in the simplest terms, materials capable of generating solar power that replace ordinary building materials. Whether this is roofing, cladding, or otherwise, the Smart thing about BIPVs is that they become part of the building–not just an extension.
Commonly, BIPVs are used in roofs, most often as tiles. This is the clever part–BIPV roof tiles, otherwise known as photovoltaic (PV) slates, solar tiles, or solar shingles, can almost perfectly blend into existing tiled roofs. For the purposes of this article, we’re going to look primarily at BIPVs for roofs.
So there’s the “ugly solar panels” problem solved–now it’s about working out what BIPV system is the best for your needs.
Advantages of Solar Tiles for Building Design
- Discrete design means no bulky solar panels sitting on top of your roof. This allows much more seamless integration into your property’s appearance.
- Because solar tiles are a part of your roof, they’re inherently much more durable. A typical solar panel system on a roof is at a greater risk of weather damage, especially in high-wind areas. This is because solar panels are mounted on a metal rack that’s slightly raised from the roof, so they are naturally more exposed to the elements. However, to make it clear, modern solar panels are still designed to withstand weather extremes, it’s just that solar tiles are more durable by default.
- Solar tiles, like all solar systems, can help reduce your electricity bill by up to 50% and give you access to clean energy.
- They’re long lasting, with a predicted lifespan of between 25 and 40 years. Admittedly this is only a prediction, albeit a well-informed one, because solar tiles are a relatively new technology having only been widely available for around 10 years.
- Low maintenance. Solar tiles, when properly installed require very little in the way of upkeep, but again, because it’s a new technology we won’t have all the answers until around 15-20 years from now.
Disadvantages of Solar Tiles
- High upfront costs. Solar tiles are definitely more expensive than ordinary solar panel systems, with the typical cost per roofing square (100 square feet) sitting around 1,100–2,600. It’s understandable because solar tiles are a new technology, but it’ll give many people interested in switching to solar pause for thought.
- Lengthy installation time. Properly installing a solar tile system requires specialists trained in both roofing and electrical work. It will usually take around two weeks to fully install a solar roof and you’ll likely need a team of around 10-15 people to do it! As technology improves and more people opt for solar tiles, the installation process will no doubt get quicker and require less people to do it.
- The return on investment isn’t great, with the expected ROI of roof with solar tiles taking around 15-20 years. These days, a solar panel system has an ROI of roughly five years.
- Lower efficiency than solar panels. Until technology improves, solar tiles currently have to trade efficiency for aesthetics. By efficiency we mean how much sunlight solar tiles convert into electricity–right now, solar panels average at around 25-30% efficiency, compared to solar tiles which operate between 10-20%.
The Best Solar Tiles Overall
Each of the BIPV systems we’ve listed here are different in their own ways, which we’ll go into in more detail in the sections below. For now, here’s an overview of the best solar tiles available on the US market.
Best Solar Tiles for Design: Tesla Solar Roof
World-renowned clean-energy brand Tesla first introduced its Solar Roof in 2016 and since then, it has become one of the most popular solar tile options in the United States.
Purely from a design perspective, Tesla’s Solar Roof wins hands down. You get access to four different tiling options, with each carrying the same sleek design expected of Tesla products.
Because of the variety in choice, it’s remarkably easy to blend Tesla’s PV slates into your home’s overall design. A statement on their website reads “each tile looks great up-close or from the street, complementing your home’s natural aesthetic styling.”
Looking through the example images it’s hard to disagree. A key advantage is that Tesla will replace your entire roof with their slates, although not every slate will be solar capable. This helps add to their seamless appeal, as most PV slate systems can still stand out against existing roof tiles.
One oddity of Tesla’s Solar Roof is that the company is yet to officially reveal its efficiency rating, leaving owners of their solar tiles in the dark. This is a bit strange considering Tesla is well known for talking proudly and in detail about its technological achievements.
A notable downside of Tesla’s Solar Roof is that it cannot be added to an existing roof – instead, you will need to replace the entire roof with their tiles. Naturally this comes at some expense, with the average cost of roofing a 2,000 sq ft home being around 55,300.
Compare this to the typical cost of a non-solar roof on a 2,000 sq ft home, which is roughly 14,000. Or, the cost of adding an ordinary solar panel installation, which will set you back 18,000 for a 6 kw system.
Tesla Solar Roof specifications:
- Dimensions per tile/shingle: L 45” x W 15” x H 2mm
- Can withstand wind speeds up to 166 miles per hour
- Maximum power per tile/shingle: 71.67 watts
- Weight per tile/shingle: 7 lbs
- Warranty: 25 years (12.5 for the inverter)
Best Solar Tiles for Durability: SunTegra Solar Shingles (STS 114)
SunTegra is another player on the solar roofing market, with a number of versions of their solar shingles available. We’re focusing on their STS 114 range here, which provides the highest output of their solar shingles.
STS 114 shingles come equipped with SunTegra’s “TegraVent” technology, which gives them excellent resistance against overheating. Their simple design gives them added durability too. According to their website, SunTegra’s solar shingles contain “50% fewer parts than conventional rack-mounted systems”, which leaves far fewer things to go wrong than those of their competitors.
SunTegra Solar Shingles specifications:
- Dimensions per tile/shingle: L 52” x W 23” x H 0.75”
- Can withstand wind speeds up to 130 miles per hour
- Maximum power per tile/shingle: 114 watts
- Weight per tile/shingle: 18 lbs
- Warranty: 25 years
Best Solar Tiles for Efficiency: Luma Solar Roof
Luma’s solar tiles share a similar sleek aesthetic to Tesla’s Solar Roof, with installations looking every bit as stylish and futuristic. The best part? They’re also incredibly efficient.
On average, Luma’s solar tiles boast a conversion efficiency rating of 22.1%, which in the world of solar tiles is almost unheard of. Though still not quite at the level of traditional solar panels, Luma’s solar tiles definitely give you plenty of power.
At around 4.50 per watt too, Luma’s solar tiles are up there with the most affordable options on the market.
Luma Solar Roof specifications:
- Dimensions per tile/shingle: L 54.37” x W 15.62” x H 2”
- Maximum power per tile/shingle: 80 watts
- Efficiency: 22.1%
- Static wind load: 2,400 Pa
- Static snow load: 5,400 Pa
- Weight per tile/shingle: 19.8 lbs
- Warranty: 25 years
Best Solar Tiles for Versatility: Forward Solar
Forward Solar, a startup company with serious investment, have created their own range of solar tiles. The unique part about their offering is its metal standing seam roof type, which enables their solar shingles to be attached to roofs and garages, barns, warehouses, and other industrial-style roofs.
Buying solar tiles from Forward Solar means paying a remarkably cheap 3.75 per watt, which is by some margin the most affordable of the solar tiles described in this article. They’re not actually available for installation at the time of writing, but you can reserve them on their website now.
Forward Solar specifications (please note, available specs are currently limited):
- Energy density: 19 watts per square foot
- Venting: Passive Venting System
- Warranty: 30 years
Power Shingles. GAF’s new Timberline Solar shingles resemble traditional asphalt shingles.
GAF, one of America’s best-known roofing companies, launched their solar shingles range in early 2022. Details on things like price-per-watt are currently limited, but one thing that was announced has definitely caught the attention of the industry.
GAF’s solar shingles, called Timberline Solar, use half as many connections as other rival manufacturers, including Tesla. What this means is that there are fewer connections that can break, which in turn dramatically increases the reliability of GAF’s solar shingles.
The company’s extensive reach across the US has many solar power supporters hoping that they can persuade more people than ever to consider adopting the technology. The price point is quite appealing too, with the predicted cost to roof a 2,000-square-foot home being around 30,000 (substantially lower than Tesla’s Solar Roof offering).
GAF Timberline Solar specifications:
- Dimensions per tile/shingle: L 64.25” x W 17.2” x H 1”
- Maximum power per tile/shingle: 45 watts
- Warranty: 25 years
Power Generator of the Future
BIPVs are still an emerging technology, but they represent one of the best options for generating clean energy. all while keeping the character of your home intact.
Despite the substantial upfront costs right now, as the tech is refined and perfected, it’s only logical that will fall. This is especially true now that big-hitters in the roofing industry like GAF have gotten involved. With the price of solar panels dropping rapidly too, PV slates will inevitably follow suit.
Pitched Solar Roof Options — The World Beyond Tesla
On-roof mounting systems still have the largest share in the residential solar photovoltaic market. However, for new or refurbished pitched roofs, this is not cost-effective. First of all, we need to understand that solar roof tiles are completely unnecessary with PV panels above them. Additionally, on-roof PV systems are quite often a visual torture. The reality is that some photovoltaic sellers squeeze in as much kW as they can and installers assemble those Tetris-like systems. The panels are arranged vertically and horizontally, clearly standing out from the roofing, visually resembling the block effect from a well-known computer game. We can do better than that.
Integrated or sticked, aka in-roof vs on-roof
On the photovoltaic market, there is now a clear increase in sales of mounting systems with an emphasis on aesthetics and integration with the roof. In addition to new solutions such as Sunroof, there is also some clear engagement of big players in the roofing industry. Both Braas and Creaton have already invested in the PV integrated systems. Recently, they were also joined by Wienerberger, who announced a financial commitment to Exasun. There are already over a dozen different PV solutions for pitched roofs on the market.
Until recently, integrated systems were perceived as a more expensive option in the premium category. Most of them were also priced this way. There is more variety on the market today, though. Below is my overview of the mounting systems available on the European market, grouped depending on the type of PV modules they use.
Regardless of the manufacturer, all integrated systems have one thing in common — they are mounted instead of the roofing material. The PV system installed in this way does not visually override the roof cover but replaces it where installed. And that generates some serious savings on material and transport. For example, a GSE In-Roof mounting system for installations with a capacity of 10kWp requires only 27 mounting trays weighing 2.5 kg each. Consider the labor savings for a roofer who, in the case of a traditional on-roof installation, first would have to transport and install 486 tiles with a total weight of 2062 kg (30× more!) and then install aluminum PV mounting rails above them. No question, on-roof systems have their advantages in the case of existing roofs, but they are no longer as economically viable on newly constructed or renovated roofs.
Recommendations
Each segment has outstanding leaders. The most numerous groups are brands that offer dedicated PV module roof integration systems and solar roof tiles. Most of them are very similar and their solutions are quite expensive. Certainly, the most known and interesting category is the category of PV tiles. This is probably mostly the effect of Tesla’s brand name, but all solar tiles have a very attractive appearance. In this category, one of the most valuable alternatives in my opinion are the Match Tile and Slate modules.
Solutions such as the one proposed by Dyaqua provide sensational aesthetics, because they are completely indistinguishable from similar traditional tiles. However, it is doubtful that they will be popularized with actual power of 6Wp and the price of 7€ per Wp. Buildings with a traditional appearance or monuments can probably be found where they are preferred, but rationality tells me that the use of other forms of PV will be much more profitable for our environment and the investor.
During my career at FAKRO, a direct competitor of Velux roof Windows, I was privileged to work with the company in the process of preparing the integration of the roof window with the Stafier system. The solar tile of this brand replaces at least 6 traditional tiles — it is a significant convenience for roofers. What is worth mentioning here is the number of electrical connections on the roof. The first variants of solar tiles required that each of them was individually connected to the electrical installation. This generated a lot of work, additional costs, and a completely unnecessary risk of error. The probability of an inaccurately made MC4 connection in the case of a roof with 486 joints (tiles) instead of possibly 27 with in-roof systems is obviously higher and the service that might be needed is very difficult.
This is probably why the trend set by Stafier and Braas seems to have also gained the recognition of Tesla, which recently published specifications for new solar tiles — this time wider, replacing a few smaller ones.
PV Module ENCOR EC370M-6-120FB 370 Wp [1755×1038]
Glass roofs offered by Emergo, Solrif, or Sunroof look very similar and differ from each other only in terms of assembly details. The final aesthetics is the main advantage of these systems. The possibility of using the so-called dummies for photovoltaically inactive fillings and roof flashings result in the uniform aesthetic character of the roof. These systems require the purchase of dedicated PV modules, manufactured in specific dimensions, appropriate preparation and additional protection of the roof, and specialized assembly. All of these aspects ultimately result in a high price.
In contrast to specialized roofs based on dedicated modules, integrated systems such as GSE In-Roof offer practical and economic advantages in addition to aesthetics. Compared to a traditional PV system mounted above the roof, GSE saves 18× in the roofing material, which significantly reduces cost, labor, and the carbon footprint. Thanks to similar in-roof solutions, traditional PV modules can be installed, regardless of the manufacturer. Therefore, dedicated production lines and special deliveries are not required. A possible future maintenance or repair of the panels, like after hail damage, can be carried out without any problems or risk of non-availability of a particular module, as in the case of systems with dedicated panels.
When it comes to the ability to generate electricity, integrated systems differ quite significantly. Some manufacturers have decided to produce dedicated modules. The colors that differ more from the typical color of silicon cells may look more appealing, but they produce less energy.
To obtain 1 kWp installations, you need a roof with an area of:
PV Module ENCOR EC370M-6-120FB 370 Wp [1755×1038]
The simplest system is the one we all know. Every roofer in Europe knows how to install roof Windows. Therefore, the easiest of these are solar tile systems, Viridian and GSE in-roof. They enable relatively easy and aesthetic integration with the above-mentioned roof Windows and an assembly system which is intuitive for the roofers.
All systems will benefit from advances in photovoltaic technology. However, only the above in-roof systems benefit from commonly used modules in the residential and solar farm markets. And this means their greater availability, economies of scale, and competition, which has an obvious impact on the favorable price of the system.
Check out the list of pitched solar roof solutions below, mentioned in my integrated PV landscape:
Standard PV Modules
Systems that enable the installation of typical PV modules.
- GSE IN-ROOF — GSE Integration
- SOLARSTONE — Solarstone
- BRAAS PV INDAX — Monier
- nD-Indachsystem — Blue-energy-systems
- IRTFS — Irfts
- TRIROOF — Tritec
- IntegPV — Sunintegration
Dedicated PV Modules
Mounting systems with modules dedicated to a given system.
- SOLRIF — Solrif
- EMERGO — Emergo
- VIRIDIAN — Viridiansolar
- EXASUN X-roof — Exasun
- ETERNIT — Eternit
- SUNROOF — Sunroof
- ROBISOL — Bitile
- AERSPIRE — aerspire
- MEGASLATE — 3s-solarplus
- NICER — megasol
PV Roof Tiles
Mounting systems such as PV tile, PV slate.
- STAFIER /BRAAS PREMIUM — Stafiersolar
- SOLARSTONE — Solarstone
- SOLINSO — Solinso
- TESLA — Tesla Solar Roof
- CIGS ePower tile — epowertile
- EXASUN X-TILE — Exasun x-tile
- MATCH Tile — Megasol match
- SMARTROOF — Smartroof
- SUNSTYLE — www.sunstyle.com
- Enviro UK — Enviro
- Dyaqua — Dyaqua
Solar Metal Roofs
Mounting systems dedicated to integration with metal coverings.
- LINDAB SOLAR — Lindab-solarroof
- ROOFIT SOLAR — RoofitSolar
- RHEINZINK — RHEINZINK-PV
- KALZIP — Kalzip
- FLISOM — Flisom
- HELIATEK — Heliatek
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Power any home with SunStyle ® solar shingles.
Expectations of the energy performance of buildings will continue to increase. At the same time, we want to move away from fossil fuels and nuclear energy, and towards renewable energy sources. A fully integrated solar roof that converts clean and unlimited solar energy into electrical energy stays takes this trend into account.
The SunStyle® solar roof connects the two objectives in a harmonious manner: first, as a high quality construction element, it offers sustainable weather protection; and, second, it enables efficient electricity production over the entire roof surface.
Design and Engineering
Our aim is to ensure that appearance of the roofscape is maintained. The traditional slate and shingle roofs in the Swiss Alpine region inspired the design of the diamond-shaped dragon-scale pattern. This installation principle guarantees optimal water-tightness and stability of the roof.
The SunStyle solar roof has an extremely low construction height and can be integrated stylishly into any building, even those with complex roof layouts taking into account their unique shape and any protrusions like chimneys or skylights. When planning a new structure, there are certain design elements that should be considered to make installation of a SunStyle roof easier and more cost-effective.
Specifications
High-quality, dual purpose roofing materials create a versatile solution that is both a durable structural roof and a distributed energy power plant. Many installations produce more energy than the property requires. This excess capacity can be stored in batteries or sold to the local utility and shared on the grid.
In addition to the signature diamond-shaped solar shingles, inactive shingles without solar cells are installed in areas without sun exposure. Energy producing edge tiles result in the ideal roof finish and maximize energy production. The system can be adapted perfectly to special roof shapes using color-matched aluminum composite panels, which can be cut to size on site.
Installation
The SunStyle roof system is easy to install. Our solar tiles are light weight and the electrical connectors on the back of the solar shingles ensure straightforward and safe cabling. The SunStyle solar roof system will integrate into any technology, so you can choose your preferred electronics and battery storage.
SunStyle provides detailed specifications, training guides, hands-on experience and certification to allow you to sell and install the SunStyle solar roof to your clients.
In addition to training and installation support, SunStyle provides.
- Active and inactive shingles, mounting hardware and gasket systems
- Specification for all other materials provided by installation partners
- Professional architectural plans and wiring diagrams
- Design services to lay out and create custom solar roof systems based on project requirements
Learn more about becoming an installation partner
SunStyle is expanding our network of US installation partners. If you have interest in installing the SunStyle solar roof system in your region, we would love to meet you and provide additional information on our training and certification processes.
Maintenance and Warranty
The solar tiles do not have any frames: this is not only for aesthetic reasons, but also because it allows the roof to be cleaned naturally by the rain. So long as no snow fences or snow guards are needed, snow does not last on the roof for long, which increases electricity production in winter. The solar roof is largely maintenance-free. However, should a defect occur, we will be pleased to assist you.
Contact Us to Discuss Your Project
We’d love to connect and discuss next steps towards bringing SunStyle to your project. If you are looking to partner with us as a certified installer, please complete an installation partner inquiry.
To receive quote for a roof outside of the United States, please click here to complete your request.
Quick Facts About Solar Roof Shingles
For more frequently asked questions about the SunStyle solar roof system, please visit our FAQs.
What are Solar Roof Shingles?
Solar roof shingles provide the same functional purpose as traditional roofing materials like asphalt, slate or metal roofing materials to protect your home from outdoor elements. However, solar shingles – aside from serving as structural construction elements – serve a very important second function that traditional roofing materials do not offer. Solar shingles contain solar cells that convert the sun’s radiation into usable electricity. In essence, you have a two-in-one solution in typical solar roof shingles; source of clean, renewable energy and durable roofing material for your home.
Depending on the brand of solar roof shingles you install on your roof, the amount of energy generated may vary due to the type of solar cells and the size of each panel. Solar shingles are generally lightweight and easy to install by a trained roofing company or solar installer. They are fast becoming a common feature in many American homes because of their higher curb appeal, flexibility and the impact on sustainability. And just like ordinary shingles, SunStyle solar shingles are designed for durability. They are UL-certified to withstand harsh rain, wind, and hail.
If you’re considering switching to solar shingles, SunStyle® solar roof shingles are a great energy-efficient roofing option for your home. They are suitable for residential, commercial, and other types of buildings.
How Do Solar Roof Shingles Work?
Solar shingles are roofing materials and solar modules together in one durable building material. This way, your roof can have a fully integrated edge-to-edge beautiful look, while still functioning as an energy-generating unit.
The principle operation of solar shingles is the same as conventional solar panels. As the PV cells absorb sunlight, they produce a flow of free electrons that yield an electrical current that can power your home.
Residential Solar Roof Shingles vs. Solar Panels
The difference between solar shingles and solar panels is the way they are installed. Solar shingles act as a structural roof that achieves two functions: to generate clean energy and to provide a uniform look across the whole roof. Solar panels, on the other other hand, are simply solar modules mounted on your roofing sheets, tiles, or shingles. Solar panels are added with a second set of building materials, and can sometimes have limits based on protrusions like chimneys, vents or skylights.
How Long Do Solar Shingles Last?
Depending on the brand you purchase, the standard lifespan of solar shingles lasts between 20 to 30 years with maximum energy output. After 20 years, the solar cells in your shingles will continue to generate electricity, but with lesser overall energy output.
SunStyle® solar shingles are designed to offer you maximum durability at optimum performance. With proper installation and maintenance, you are guaranteed a performance output of 90% up to 10 years and 80% up to 25 years. SunStyle shingles are manufactured using laminated glass, which is more durable than standard roofing materials and designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. SunStyle has a Class 4 Hail Rating, which is the highest hail rating and can reduce insurance rates.
How Many Solar Shingles Do I Need for My Residential Solar Roof?
The number of active solar shingles is dependent on the size of your roof and your desired system size. With a fully integrated solar roof system like SunStyle, a solar designer will place active shingles in the key locations and then complete the roof with similarly designed inactive shingles. Shingles that can be cut on site will be used to create a uniform look around vents, skylights, chimneys or other protrusions.
Are you looking to find out the cost of installing solar shingles on your home?
SunStyle® solar shingles are a premium option that provides a fully-uniform aesthetic with a single set of building materials. The cost of installing solar roof shingles largely depends on the size and complexity of your roof, and the active solar system size. Please reach out to us today your project specifications, we can provide you with an initial assessment and estimate.
Pv slate cost
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⚡️ We are extremely excited to become Megasol’s UK installation partner. Europe’s leading solar panel and solar tile manufacturer. the multi-award winning company based in Switzerland.
⚡️ No longer do you need separate roof tiles and solar panels. Solar Tiles (or Slates/Shingles) are electricity generating roof tiles.
⚡️ Megasol’s Solar Tiles are second to none in terms of quality, looks and performance. They fit seamlessly with Smartly’s no compromise goal to supply reliable and sustainable products, which perform well, and look incredible.
⚡️ Our expert design and installation team works with you to find the best solar solution for your needs, and work with you through any design, grid applications or planning consent required. Reach out to us to arrange a call, and we can tailor a solution to suit your exact needs.
Solar Options
Integrated Solar Roof Tiles. Traditional Slate Style in Grey
Integrated Solar Roof Tiles. Modern Black
Integrated Solar Roof Tiles. Modern or Traditional
High performance Solar Panels, mounted on existing roof structures or integrated in-roof. Multiple brands available.
⚡️ With skyrocketing electricity prices, there has never been a better time to invest in solar power. Solar Panels, battery storage and EV charging are the perfect combination to generate and use renewable and sustainable electricity, instead of buying at a premium from the grid.
⚡️ We have chosen to partner with Megasol as they have a proven 30 year track record of quality manufacturing and superior products. Our values align and we share a drive for a cleaner, greener, sustainable future.
Award Winning Market Leaders
Megasol is the industry leader in European Solar design and manufacture. A multi-award winner in design, architecture and technology.
Megasol has ISO9001 accreditation and all their products are extensively tested to the highest European standards (IEC/EN 61215, 6170, 61701, 62716). Megasol also offers an extended 10 year product warranty and guarantees performance for 25 years.
Is your project unique? We work outside the box too!
Smartly and Megasol can help with projects that are not your usual roof structure. Car Ports are a popular choice. Store the electricity produced and charge your car(s) directly from the car port structure.
No project is too big. Here is Schaffhausen Football Stadium in Switzerland. An epic solar stadium roof with 8707m² of Megasol solar tiles, producing an output of 1.2MWp.
We can provide guidance on projects. Here is the highest PV system in Europe, 3821m above sea level in Zermatt, Switzerland. producing an output of 77kWp. Megasol solar tiles can operate in the harshest of environments!
⚡️ You do not need to compromise the look of your home, office or commercial building to be greener and more sustainable.
⚡️ Some people do not like the look of standard solar panels, but still wish to generate their own power and/or offset their carbon footprint. Solar Tiles are the perfect solution, while making your roof look great.
⚡️ Solar tiles are also an option in conservation areas or on listed buildings where standard solar panels cannot be installed (subject to planning permission).
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Solar Questions Answered.
Solar tiles cost slightly more than standard solar panels. However, when you consider that they are the roof material and solar panel combined, you do not have to purchase a new roof and additional solar panels.
As a rough estimate (depending on the product), Standard Solar Panels cost on average £1750 per kW, or £250 per square metre. Solar Tiles cost on average £2250 per kW or £350 per square metre. However it is worth remembering that solar tiles replace the roof materials, so you do not need to purchase and install roof tiles if you go for the solar tiled option.
Plus UK customers pay ZERO VAT on solar panels and tiles between now and 2025. So it is an ideal time to make the investment.
Please note these do not include installation costs (which are usually around 25% of the material cost), or any battery storage.
Megasol solar tiles are made to order so delivery will be approximately 12-16 weeks from date of order.
Smartly works with every party involved to align schedules and make sure the project is completed as smoothly as possible. We’re here to help every step of the way.
Megasol solar panels and tiles are manufactured for each specific project, and we work with you every step of the way.
Contact us in the first instance with an enquiry and we’ll help with design and costing. Click here to contact us or email support@smartlycharging.com. If you have roof or structural drawings then it would be great if you could send them to us. We will work with you to fully understand your requirements, and advise on the best tile or panel type for your project.
Yes, we have a fantastic team of qualified installers across the UK ready to go.
We break down the decision to two aspects. cost and carbon footprint.
With skyrocketing electricity prices, there has never been a better time to invest in solar power. Solar Panels, battery storage and EV charging are the perfect combination to use ALL the power you generate instead of buying electricity from the grid!
If you are replacing your roof, or building a new home or commercial premises, solar tiles mean you do not need separate roof tiles and solar panels.
You also do not need to compromise the look of your home, office or commercial building to be greener and more sustainable. Some people do not like the look of standard solar panels, but still wish to generate their own power and/or offset their carbon footprint. Solar Tiles are the perfect solution for a greener, more sustainable future, while making your roof look great.
Of course! Standard Solar panels have fantastic benefits too. Click here to find out more about our Standard Panels.
Or feel free to contact us with an enquiry and we’ll help with design and costing. Click here to contact us or email support@smartlycharging.com
Solar Tiles Summary
⚡️ Solar tiles and solar slates are the perfect way to invest in a solar solution for your home. With modern options and traditional choices for a range of home aesthetics, Smartly has everything you need to make the switch to solar power all in one place.
⚡️ With world leading leading brands in the solar technology industry such as Megasol, Smartly only stocks the very best solar options for our customers.
Solar tiles and solar slates are the ideal choice for those who want a roof and solar power option rolled into one. You do not need to compromise the look of your home, office or commercial building to be greener and more sustainable.
Tiles and slates with solar technology differ from solar panels in that they also act as roofing materials. This means that by opting to choose tiles, we’ll be replacing your current roofing tiles with solar versions.
Some people do not like the look of standard solar panels, but still wish to generate their own power and/or offset their carbon footprint. Solar Tiles are the perfect solution, while making your roof look great.
Solar tiles are also an option in conservation areas or on listed buildings where standard solar panels cannot be installed (subject to planning permission).
There’s an abundance of options to choose from, such as:
⚡️ Match solar roof tiles with a traditional slate look. This option has a variety of colour options available such as black, terracotta, and grey. They generate 165Wp/m2⚡️ Level solar roof tiles for a modern style. These tiles don’t overlap like slates but sit neat and flat. This option comes in terracotta or black and generates 165Wp/m2⚡️ Nicer solar roof tiles. A more efficient, integrated option that is ideal for modern homes. These tiles generate 220Wp/m2 and are available in black gloss.
Find the ideal tile for your roof by contacting us today!