Solar Panels vs. Solar Shingles

These two photovoltaic (PV) technologies both bring renewable energy to your home the same way, but there are a few things to consider when choosing between them. Each is better suited to a certain type of structure - and this is likely to factor into your decision.

Let's begin with some of the prerequisites to installing each technology, this might quickly narrow down your choices.

Solar shingles require:

• a roof aimed at the sun
• a roof substrait that can handle getting hot

These disadvantages can rule out certain weakly angled (or flat) roofs as well as roofs with improper air circulation. A contractor/installer would have to evaluate your roof to see if it meets the requirements. If you're building a new structure I'd recommend getting in contact with a solar expert and checking the architect's drawings ASAP; your wallet will appreciate not having to modify a structure or buy unnecessary roofing materials.

Advantages of Solar Shingles

• they look just like a roof, no bulky panels/mounts!
• not only do they provide power, but they actually protect your house from the elements

Solar shingles on display. image source

So if you are building a new home or roof, or if your roof happens to be a good candidate, then solar shingles are hip and nice looking way to get some green energy. If you have to replace a roof you might even get to save money you would otherwise spend on other materials.

Onto our good friend, photovoltaic panels...

Advantages of Solar Panels

• bigger + cheaper
• adjustable tracks allow solar panels to go on roofs of various slopes
• removable & relocatable without buying a new roof

Though not as hip as their tiny cousins, solar panels have fairly flexible installation options. If your roof is the wrong angle or facing the wrong direction, a track can help angle the panels towards the sun. For these reasons solar panels will likely remain the photovoltaic technology of choice for commercial roofs or existing structures that want to go green without spending too much green.

Solar panels being installed, Japan.