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Solar Tiles – information brought to you from MySolarPowers

Solar tiles or solar roof tiles operate in pretty much the same way as solar PV panels except that they are made to be much less visually obtrusive and are made to be a similar size to large format traditional roof tiles.

Solar tiles are designed to be a much more “in roof” than “on roof” solution and can more easily become an integral part of the roof, particularly if installed at the time of construction or roof replacement.

Aesthetically Pleasing

Again, and rather like solar shingles or solar slates, one of the key factors outside of the main purposes of harnessing solar energy is that solar tiles will not spoil the look of your home. The solar roof tile has photovoltaic solar cells built-in so that it ceases to be the case of have solar panels located on top of a roof tile but that these solar cells are an integral part of the roof structure, built-in and unobtrusive, and usually designed in such a way that they can interlock seamlessly with standard slates, shingles and concrete tiles – so much so that many of the leading tile manufacturers are now marketing solar tiles themselves.

How do solar tiles work?

The way that solar tiles work is exactly the same as described in other sections in that solar roof tiles convert the light into electrical energy via the semi-conductor material. Once the daylight hits the solar cell, the electrons are released which produces the electric current which is then collected and, dependent upon the system you have adopted, is either used or stored. Solar tiles or solar roof tiles are dependant upon daylight rather than having to have direct sunlight and are capable of capturing solar power even on cloudy days.

As with the other PV panel systems we have discussed, solar tiles may be part of a stand-alone system or can be grid linked. Stand alone systems can be a very effective option particularly if installed into areas where power supply is prone to regular interruptions. The solar roof tools can readily be configured to charge banks of batteries via a straight-forward inverter. Mains systems have other benefits as discussed in other sections but certainly a benefit that can readily obtained, comes via the feed-in tariff system.

Clearly like all solar systems the greater the light levels the solar tiles receive, the more easily they will generate electricity so they will operate at their best if orientated towards the south and are generally suitable for a roof pitch from 17.5” – 60” from the horizontal.

Power generation

It seem to be a generally accepted estimate that an “average family” will use in the region of 3500 kilowatt hours of electricity per annum, which, according to installers and manufacturers would require around 50 square meters of solar roof tiles installed in order to meet this level of demand. Clearly not every home will provide enough south facing roof space but there is still no reason why a percentage of the family need cannot be supplied via solar power whilst maintaining. Prior to installing a solar energy system it also makes sense to improve the energy efficiency of your home with insulation checks, draught proofing, low energy lighting etc.

Solar roof tiles –planning consents

Unless you live in a listed building or conservation area such as a national park it is unlikely that you will need planning permission – we always advise however, that you discuss your intention with your local authority first so that you can be 100% confident. It is worthy of note that some planning authorities have welcomed the solar tiles, solar slates and solar shingles in preference to standard solar panels.

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