Solar shingles vs solar panels cost

Are solar shingles worth it?

Solar shingles don't perform as well as solar panels and tend to cost a lot more. CertainTeed offers the highest performance solar shingles, but they don't blend in as well as some other options. If you already need to replace your roof to go solar and you're concerned about solar panel aesthetics, solar shingles are probably worth it.

Are solar shingles better than solar panels?

Solar panels use an older technology and are less expensive to purchase upfront than solar shingles. If your roof is in good condition, solar panels might be a more cost-effective option. However, if you’re planning to replace your roof anyway, solar shingles might make more sense. Winner: Solar shingles

Can solar shingles be installed on a flat roof?

Solar shingles only work with tilted or sloped roofs, so if you’ve got a flat roof, they’re not an option. Solar panels, on the other hand, are compatible with all roof types — and they can also be installed on the ground. Winner: Solar panels

What is a solar shingle?

A solar shingle is essentially a small solar panel that acts as a roof shingle. Solar shingles replace the existing roofing material on your home or business. Most have at least a 20-year life span and perform two jobs: They gather sunlight to make solar power, and they protect your roof (like an asphalt shingle).

Which solar shingles are best?

CertainTeed's Solstice shingle tops the list at 16.1 W/sq. ft., while SunTegra's Solar Tile comes in last with 14.1 W/sq. ft. If you're choosing solar shingles over solar panels for aesthetics, you probably want the ones that will blend in the best with your roof, even if it means sacrificing performance a bit.

Why are solar shingles so popular?

They became more popular when Tesla debuted its solar roof in 2016. Since then, more solar panel companies and installers have begun offering solar shingles for residential installations. From a distance, solar shingles resemble standard asphalt roof shingles but they contain thin layers of photovoltaic (PV) sheets protected by tempered glass.