Modern solar panel roof tiles

What are solar roof tiles?

Solar roof tiles, also known as solar slates or solar shingles, are made to look a lot like normal roof tiles, except they also contain photovoltaic (PV) cells and can generate electricity. Unlike traditional solar panels, which sit on top of your roof, solar roof tiles are your roof, i.e. they completely replace your old tiles.

How to choose a solar roof?

Compared to conventional roofing materials, solar tiles often contribute greater weight. Thus, a sturdy roof is necessary to support the load. Energy production is a crucial factor to consider when selecting solar tiles. Think about solar tiles' electricity output, which is between 25W and 114W.

Why are solar roof tiles so expensive?

However, the solar roof tile market in the UK is still fairly limited, and no way near as developed as the traditional solar panel market. This is partly why solar roof tiles are so much more expensive than normal solar panels. You can replace your roof tiles with solar panels, either using solar roof tiles or in-roof solar panels.

Where can I buy solar roof tiles in the UK?

You can buy solar roof tiles from various UK companies, including GB-Sol and Solecco, in a range of styles and colours to suit your specific requirements and preferences. However, the solar roof tile market in the UK is still fairly limited, and no way near as developed as the traditional solar panel market.

What are integrated roof tiles?

Integrated roof tiles offer a compact alternative to solar panels, but provide the same benefits. Learn more about the smart technology with Project Solar UK.

How do solar tiles work?

Solar tiles are integrated into the roof itself and function as both a roofing substance and a source of energy, as opposed to conventional solar panels, which are mounted on top of an existing roof. Photovoltaic cells in solar tiles turn sunlight into direct current (DC) energy.