What are Solar Roof Tiles?
Solar Roof Tiles or simply "solar tiles," are an easy way to add solar technology to your home without changing the way it looks. They offer an alternative to conventional solar panels installed on top of your roof. Solar Tiles are not solar panels, although they perform similar functions. With this clever replacement, you can harness the sun's rays to power your home in comfort and style.
How do Solar Roof Tiles Work?
Solar roof tiles use photovoltaic cells that allow them to create power from sunlight. When sunlight hits the solar tile, it is converted into direct current (DC) electricity. The solar inverter then converts this into alternate current (AC) electricity to power the home.
What are Solar Tiles Made With?
Depending on the specific product used, solar roof tiles can be made with a few different materials, earlier products were typically made from plastics whereas the latest technology is usually manufactured using aluminium and glass, the same materials that regular solar panels are made with. The roof itself can be made from a variety of materials, as seen on regular tiled roofs such as terracotta or concrete. Then, the photovoltaic cells can be made with a variety of semiconductor materials.
More often than not, you’ll find the cells in the solar tiles made from Silicon. Solar modules made from silicon make up over 95% of the solar modules market, bu, you can also find solar tiles made with thin-film photovoltaic semiconductors. These types of solar modules are either made from cadmium telluride (CdTe) or copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS).
While thin-film photovoltaic semiconductors are not as efficient as silicon, they can be applied to other materials, making them a more versatile option. With thin-film photovoltaic semiconductors, regular roof tiles can be made then either CdTe or CIGS can be applied to make it a solar tile.
The Benefits of Solar Roof Tiles
The following are some of the most notable benefits of installing solar tiles:
Ease of Installation
Putting up solar roof tiles is a breeze. Installing solar roof tiles does not necessitate cutting, grinding, or drilling into the roof. In addition, solar roof tiles can be utilized in conjunction with a battery system to ensure a constant electricity supply, even when the sun is not out.
Aesthetic Choice
The aesthetic value of Solar Tiles is one of the primary benefits of their use. As solar technology is built into the tile itself, solar roof tiles may discreetly provide green energy without sacrificing the roof's aesthetic value.
Durability
Just like ordinary roof tiles, solar roof tiles are built to last. Solar roof tiles are just as resistant to the elements as traditional roof tiles. Unlike traditional solar panels, solar tiles typically have no roof penetrations which means leaky roofs will be a thing of the past.Combined with a much lower requirement for maintenance, solar tiles definitely have benefits for home owners over a standard unsightly solar panel installation.
Solar tiles and solar panels have advantages and disadvantages, so it is essential to consider your property's specifics before making a final decision. To save money, new homeowners of an existing home may want to consider installing solar panels instead of solar tiles. However, a solar tile installation can be better than a panel system if you are building a new home or are looking into replacing your existing roof.