Are Solar Shingles Worth It?
These alternatives to solar panels generate a lot of interest
Highlights
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. Learn more about solar shingles and if they’re the right choice for solar energy in your home.
What Are Solar Shingles?
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.
Solar Shingles vs. Solar Panels
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% |
Solar Shingle Installation
"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
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 solar shingle installer with experience installing this technology. A local roofer will measure your roof for shingles to determine how many you need.
Solar Shingle Cost
The aesthetic advantage of solar shingles comes at a premium price. Solar shingles are more expensive than solar panels, costing $20 to $30 per square foot. An average solar shingle installation can cost between $35,000 and $75,000. In comparison, a standard solar panel system costs between $15,000 and $25,000 and the cost to shingle a roof with traditional shingles averages between $4,500 and $20,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
The life expectancy of a solar shingle roof is around 20 years. Because solar shingles are a newer technology, there isn’t a lot of data yet on their actual life span, but longevity will vary based on roof condition, weather, and shingle cleaning and maintenance.
Solar roofing shingles may qualify for tax credits under federal residential property energy incentives in the U.S. Be sure to verify current guidelines for details on what qualifies before investing in solar shingles.
Solar shingles or panels can increase your home’s value if they’re properly installed, well maintained, and a desirable feature in your area. Many homebuyers are interested in alternative energy sources, and solar shingles offer an energy-efficient option with curb appeal.