Solar Roof Tiles
Solar Roof Tiles
Find out about solar cells built into roof tiles / shingles
solarA fantastic innovation is the
Solar Roof Tile. Rather than put a standard tiled roof on a property and then fit solar panels on top of it, it is possible to purchase roof tiles with built in photovoltaic solar cells. These tiles can be used on new build properties, or incorporated into an existing roof during re-roofing. These tiles are designed to blend in with existing roof tiles whether they are interlocking concrete tiles, slates, or shingles. Each tile has a connector, and are simply wired together during installation.
As long as you have a south / south-east / or south-west facing roof which is not shaded by trees and/or large buildings, solar roof tiles offer a simple way to 'go green'. It is far more expensive than have a wind turbine in the bottom of the garden, but for many people in built up areas, solar roof tiles are one of the only options available.
For a grid tied system at least 100 square feet of roof space is required.
For buyers in the UK one option is solarcentury's C21 solar roof tile which was designed specifically for the UK housing market. It fits together with common interlocking roof tiles and so can be installed by any roofer. 200 standard tiles replaced with
C21 solar tiles gives a 2kW solar system and costs between £8,000 and £12,000 assuming a government grant of £8,000. This system would generate around 1,600kWh of electricty annual silently and without emissions. The tiles should last a minimum of 30 years and will require minimal maintenance.
Article Last Modified: 21:01, 30th Mar 2006
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