Solar Roof Shingles

Finally, solar roof shingles are on the market and we aren't restricted to those unsightly solar panels. The solar shingles give the appearance of asphalt shingles, but have a thin film of photovoltaic cells to hold the solar energy. And experts seem to think they are more effective than the solar panels.

At the heart of the solar roof shingle technology is a photovoltaic (PV) semiconductor layer that is laminated to the shingles’ surface. The solar roofing shingles convert the sun’s solar rays into electricity that the home uses.

If the solar roof shingles produce more electricity than is consumed by the home, the energy can either be stored in batteries for later use, or more often, fed back to the electric company for an energy credit. When the excess electricity is fed back to the public utility, your electric meter actually turns backwards.

Solar shingles look very similar to standard asphalt roof shingles both in size and appearance, and are aesthetically much more attractive than roof mounted solar panels. Many have a deep dark bluish/purple appearance and blend in well with existing asphalt roof shingles. The manufacturer SunPower also offers them in a black appearance.

New technology has doubled the efficiency of solar cells from 7% to 10%, to 20%. They are efficient and durable. It's not an impossible dream to be paid by your local electrical company for excess power being generated by your roof.

Because of the huge amount of heat absorbed by solar roof shingles, you will need to use perforated (ventilated) plywood as an underlayment. But they don't require any additional support.

If you're adding them over an existing roof, the asphalt shingles will be enough to protect the underlayment, but the solar shingles will then be more noticeable.

The shingles have a strong adhesive on the underside which keeps them in place during strong winds (but I don't think they've been tested to withstand hurricanes).

What's Their Value?

Solar shingles pay for themselves quicker than solar panels (it'll probably take 8 to 10 years, depending on your climate), and they have an average lifespan of 20 years. They are available in several colors which match standard asphalt shingles, making them hard to detect. And most manufacturers offer warranties.

Although expensive (on a par with solar panels), they obviously (it's the reason you're reading this) have a significant impact on energy consumption.

In addition, they will increase the sales value of your home by at least as much as their cost. If you are serious about adding solar shingles to your roof, look into incentives being offered by local and state governments. Tax credits may even be available.

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