When you think about generating energy from the sun, the first thing you’ll probably think of is standard solar panels on a roof. You might think of small scale solar lights outside or maybe your thoughts will drift to ground mounted solar panels and large-scale solar farms.
But what about solar tiles? If you’ve heard of solar tiles or not, this new form of technology could be reaching more homes near you.
Whilst they are similar to solar panels in the fact that they convert sunlight into electricity, they differ significantly in design and installation. We’ll explain all in this article looking at solar panels vs solar tiles.
What are solar tiles and how do they work?
Solar tiles are highly innovative roofing materials that combine a standard roof tile with a solar panel. They’re sometimes known as solar shingles or photovoltaic tiles.
Unlike traditional solar panels that are fitted onto a roof, the solar tiles are the roof itself – solar tiles are used to create a solar roof. Their job is to provide a protective and waterproof structure, as well as absorbing sunlight and generating electricity through the incorporation of photovoltaic silicon cells (usually monocrystalline solar cells). I’d say that’s pretty impressive.
Solar tiles are designed to reproduce the appearance of conventional roofing materials such as slate, terracotta or thinner shingles. The solar tiles are interconnected and wired into the home’s electrical system.
Solar tile roofs are more often used in new-build situations but they can be used on existing homes as a full roof replacement job. As solar tiles are an electrical product, installers generally border the solar tiles with two natural slates to the edges.
Although individual solar tiles may produce less power than a standard solar panel, a roof fully covered with solar tiles can generate significant amounts of electricity.
Difference between solar panels and solar tiles
Let’s take a look at the major differences between solar panels and solar tiles in the key areas.
Costs and initial outlay
When it comes to costs, solar panels are generally much more affordable than solar tiles.
A typical 3.5kW solar panel system for an average three-bedroom home in the UK might cost around £7,000 – £9,000. In contrast, a comparable solar tile system could cost anywhere from £9,000 to £16,000.
The substantial price difference is due to several factors:
- Solar tiles require a full roof replacement
- Installation is more complex and time-consuming – it can take up to a week to install a solar roof
- The technology is newer and less widely available
For homeowners already planning to replace their roof, the cost difference may be less significant when factoring in the expense of new traditional roofing materials.
Energy generation
Solar panels typically generate more electricity than solar tiles. This is partly due to their ability to be positioned at optimal angles for sunlight exposure.
A modern solar panel can produce between 300 and 500 watts of power. Solar tiles produce less than this at somewhere between 132-150 watts per square metre. To put this into perspective an average solar panel might measure around 2m by 1m.
Either way, a solar roof will produce a significant amount of energy. This will be aligned to your home’s needs. For example, a standard 3 bed home might install a 4kW solar tile roof system, just as they would a 4kW solar panel system. The major difference is that a solar tile roof will look just like a normal roof.
Energy efficiency
Solar panels outperform solar tiles in terms of energy efficiency. A good solar panel will have an efficiency rating of at least 17%, with top models reaching up to 23%.
Solar tiles usually have efficiency ratings between 10% and 20%. The lower efficiency is partly due to less optimal positioning on the roof and reduced airflow, which can lead to higher operating temperatures.
Read more on how efficient are solar panels.
Aesthetics
This is where solar tiles come into their own – they hold a clear advantage in terms of appearance.
Solar tiles are designed to replace traditional roofing materials in terms of their look. This makes them nearly indistinguishable from regular roof tiles.
Whilst increasingly sleek, solar panels still remain visible additions to a roof. They stick out from the roofline and are usually black or blue in colour.
For homeowners who really care about the look of their roof and still want to generate solar energy, solar tiles may be a great option.
Installation and roof types
Solar panels offer greater versatility in terms of installation, as they can be fitted on almost all roof types, including flat roofs.
In the UK, the optimal placement for solar panels is on south-facing roofs at a 30-40 degree angle, although east and west-facing roofs can also be suitable. The installation of solar panels is relatively quick, usually taking only a few days to complete. This speedier process is due to the panels being mounted on top of the existing roof structure, rather than integrated into it.
With solar tiles, there are more specific requirements and limitations. They aren’t suitable for flat roofs, which immediately restricts their use in certain properties. Solar tiles can be generally fitted to roof pitches as low as 27.5 degrees, although this may vary depending on the manufacturer. Unlike traditional roof tiles, solar tiles cannot be cut in the same way, which may limit the installation area and affect the overall design of the roof.
The installation process for solar tiles is more complex and time-consuming, often taking up to a week to complete. This longer timeframe is due to the need for a full roof replacement or integration during new construction, as solar tiles become an integral part of the roof structure itself.
Maintenance and durability
Both solar panels and solar tiles are designed to be durable and long-lasting. Solar panels have a proven track record, with an expected lifespan of 25-30 years.
Solar tiles are a much newer technology, so their long-term durability is less established. However, many manufacturers offer 20 year plus warranties, and some claim their tiles will last as long as the house itself. As the solar tiles are the roof itself, this warranty should cover both the product and weatherproofing.
For example, the GB-Sol PV slate solar tile comes with a 25 year warranty for product and weatherproofing. They also guarantee that their tiles will still produce at least 90% of power after 10 years and 80% after 25 years. These guarantees are in line with the top solar panel manufacturers.
Solar tiles may have an edge in weatherproofing, as they form an integral part of the roof structure. Solar panels, whilst sturdy, can create small gaps that may require additional protection against nesting animals or debris accumulation.
Energy savings and payback period
Due to their higher efficiency and lower initial costs, solar panels tend to offer a quicker return on investment through energy savings.
For a 3-4kW system, solar panels might pay for themselves within 10-15 years through reduced energy bills and potential income from SEG payments. This can be much lower if the solar is paired with battery storage technology. Take a look at this post on solar panels with or without battery storage.
Solar tiles, with their higher upfront costs and lower efficiency, have a longer payback period. That said, it’s thought most solar tile installations can reduce electricity bills by 40% to 70%.
However, they may add up to 14% to a property’s value, which could offset the initial investment if the homeowner plans to sell.
The exact savings and payback periods for both options depend on factors such as:
- Energy prices
- System size and efficiency
- Property location and sunlight exposure
Pros and cons of solar panels vs solar tiles
With many factors at play, there are pros and cons to both solar panels and solar tiles. Here’s a summary:
| Solar panel pros | Solar panel cons |
| Higher efficiency (17-23%) | Less aesthetically pleasing |
| Lower cost per watt | Efficiency can be reduced from shading |
| Easier installation and replacement | |
| Suitable for existing roofs |
| Solar tile pros | Solar tile cons |
| Great, integrated appearance | Lower efficiency (10-20%) |
| Double function as roof and solar energy generator | Higher initial cost |
| Suitable for new builds or full roof replacements | More complex installation and replacement |
| Suitable for existing roofs | Limited suitability for existing roofs |
Environmental considerations
Solar panels and tiles reduce carbon emissions by generating clean electricity. A solar panel system can offset 1-2 tonnes of CO2 annually. Solar tiles may have a slightly larger carbon footprint during production due to their more complex manufacturing process but this depends.
For example, the XO solar roof tiles are made from recycled plastic and are stated to contain less than 9.5 times the embodied carbon per square metre than normal tiles and solar panels.
Both options are recyclable, but panels are currently easier to recycle. About 95% of a solar panel’s materials can be recovered and reused. Solar tile recycling is less developed, but advancements are being made.
Both solar panel and solar tiles have long lifespans of at least 25 years, with some models said to last up to 40 years. This is great as it reduces the need for replacement.
Who are solar tiles good for?
Solar tiles are particularly well-suited for certain types of homeowners and situations. Here are some of the best examples:
- New builds and full roof replacements – As solar tiles integrate directly into the roof structure, they are ideal for new construction projects or when a complete roof replacement is needed.
- Design-conscious homeowners – Those who prioritise aesthetics and want a sleek, integrated look will love the appearance of solar tiles.
- Listed buildings or conservation areas – In locations with strict planning regulations or historic preservation requirements, solar tiles may be more likely to gain approval than traditional solar panels.
- Long-term homeowners – Given the higher initial cost, solar tiles are best for those planning to stay in their homes for an extended period to realise the full benefits of energy savings and potential property value increase.
- Early adopters of technology – Homeowners who enjoy being at the forefront of new technologies and are willing to invest in cutting-edge solutions may find solar tiles appealing.
- Those with plenty of roof space – As solar tiles are less efficient than panels, they require more roof area to generate equivalent power. This makes them well-suited for properties with large, unobstructed roof surfaces.
Wrap up on solar panels vs solar tiles
For most homeowners, traditional solar panels remain the most practical and cost-effective choice due to their higher efficiency, lower initial costs and proven track record.
However, solar tiles represent an exciting development, particularly for new builds and homes requiring roof replacements. Whilst currently more expensive and slightly less efficient, they offer an impressive aesthetic that appeals to design-conscious homeowners and may be more suitable in conservation areas.
As technology advances, we can expect improvements in the efficiency of solar tiles and reductions in their cost, potentially making them an increasingly attractive option. Ultimately, the choice between solar panels and tiles will depend on individual circumstances, including budget and specific property requirements.
