These alternatives to solar panels generate a lot of interest
Solar shingles generate energy from the sun without traditional bulky panels.
Solar shingles are more expensive than solar panels and are a fairly new technology.
While solar panels are widely available, solar shingles have more limited availability.
Many homeowners are turning to solar power for eco-friendly energy savings, but not everyone likes the look of large solar panels on their roofs. Solar shingles offer a lower-profile alternative to traditional solar panels. But are solar shingles worth it? Learn more about solar shingles and if they’re the right choice for solar energy in your home.
Solar shingles, like solar panels, convert sunlight into energy that can be used in your home. Unlike solar panels, solar shingles are small and unobtrusive, around the same size and shape as traditional roof shingles. They offer an aesthetically pleasing alternative to solar panels for homeowners who don’t want bulky solar panels on their roofs.
Solar shingles are a relatively new technology, introduced in the U.S. in 2011. Because they’re so much newer than solar panels, they aren’t as widely available, and some areas may not have installers with experience installing solar shingles.
Before investing in solar shingles for your roof, consider the following benefits and drawbacks:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Blend into the roof | Cannot adjust the position |
| Durable and come with a warranty | Not as efficient as solar panels |
| Higher cost | Limited options |
| Increases home value | Requires specialized installation |
If you’re trying to decide between solar panels and solar shingles, there’s a lot to take into consideration beyond appearance. These two technologies have a lot of similarities but also some significant differences.
| Factor | Solar Shingles | Solar Panels |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 12 in. by 86 in. | 39 in. by 65 in. |
| Power Output | Up to 70 watts | Up to 400 watts |
| Longevity | 20 years | 25–30 years |
| Material | Copper indium gallium selenide or monocrystalline cells | Silicon cells |
| Efficiency | Up to 18% | Up to 24% |
"Metal shingle roofing has reflective pigments to act as radiant barriers and their shape creates an air gap or thermal break between the metal and the roof deck, stopping conductive heat transfer, making them great for summer efficiency."
— Todd Miller, President of Isaiah Industries, Piqua, OH
The aesthetic advantage of solar shingles comes at a premium price. Solar shingles are more expensive than solar panels, costing $20 to $25 per square foot. An average solar shingle installation can cost between $21,000 and $75,000. In comparison, a standard solar panel system costs between $18,400 and $36,400, and the cost to shingle a roof with traditional shingles averages between $7,500 and $18,000.
Solar shingles can replace or be attached to a portion or the majority of your existing shingles. Most solar shingle installations require 300 to 350 shingles, but the total number of shingles needed will depend on your home’s energy needs. Solar shingle installation takes about a week, and you’ll want to hire a roofer or local solar pro with experience installing this technology. A local roofer will measure your roof for shingles to determine how many you need.
Solar panels are more cost-effective, but solar shingles are valued for their aesthetics. Here are some considerations if you’re wondering if solar shingles are a good option for your home:
If you have a flat roof, you’ll need to use solar panels as solar shingles won’t work.
You can use solar energy with solar shingles without a big solar panel system on your roof.
If efficiency is a major factor in your decision, solar panels offer more efficient energy production.
You don’t have to install solar shingles on your whole roof, but you’ll need enough to meet your energy usage.
Installing solar shingles could allow you to go solar if your HOA prohibits solar panel installations.
Solar shingles require specialized installation and cost more, so you’ll spend more than you would on solar panels.
The life expectancy of a solar shingle roof is around 20 years under optimal conditions, depending on the manufacturer’s specifications. Because solar shingles are a newer technology, there isn’t a lot of data yet on their actual life span due to limited field testing. Factors like weather, installation quality, roof ventilation, and regular maintenance and cleaning can impact durability and longevity.
Solar roofing shingles may qualify for significant federal tax incentives through programs like the Residential Clean Energy Credit, which offers up to 30% of installation costs through 2032. State and local governments often provide additional credits, and utility companies may offer further rebates or net metering programs, depending on the state. Just look into the qualification requirements beforehand because installation, documentation, and technical standards can impact eligibility. Consult the current guidelines and a tax professional to maximize available benefits.
Solar roofing increases home values by 4% to 6%. A well-maintained solar installation can appeal to environmentally-conscious buyers and those mindful of their utility usage. However, the potential increase in value depends on factors like the local real estate market, energy costs, and solar incentives. Solar homes often sell faster and command higher premiums in areas with high electricity rates. However, older or poorly maintained systems may not add significant value, especially if they're near the end of their functional life span.
