According to a recent report, 43% of the UK’s energy came from renewable sources in 2023 – a figure that is only likely to grow year-on-year. This is a welcome change, especially when you consider the fact that just 2.8% of the UK’s energy came from renewable resources as recently as 2000.
There are many reasons for this shift, from a heightened interest in environmentalism and sustainability to finding an effective way to lower energy bills.
Fortunately, there are many different ways in which homeowners can begin to utilise renewable energy within their homes – from switching to an eco-friendly provider to installing solar roof tiles.
In this article, we’ll delve deeper into solar roof tiles, touching upon their benefits, potential shortcomings, and more. This way, you can make an informed decision as to whether or not you’d like to install them!
What is the difference between solar panels and solar tiles?
Right now, 1.3 million properties in the UK feature solar panels, according to a recent report. However, the number of people using solar tiles is also on the rise.
While they serve a similar purpose, there are various differences between solar panels and solar tiles – the latter being a more recent innovation. For example, in terms of aesthetics, solar panels are large, flat panels mounted onto a homeowner’s roof. Solar panel roof tiles, however, as the name suggests, are designed to emulate the appearance of more traditional roof tiles.
While solar panels are relatively easy to install, given that they can be mounted on a roof or flat surface, solar tiles require a complete roof renovation. This is because they are designed to replace pre-existing roof tiles.
What are the benefits of Solar Roof Tiles?
There are many benefits associated with solar roof tile installation.
Better for the environment.
Using solar energy within the home is a great way to contribute to a brighter, greener future. This is because it is classified as a green energy source, making it far kinder on the planet than other sources, such as fossil fuels. For example, by utilising solar energy within your home, you can drastically reduce your carbon footprint or the overall impact that your lifestyle has on the world around you.
Not only that, but studies suggest that “every hour and a half, enough sunlight reaches the earth’s surface to meet the world’s energy needs for an entire year.” As such, by installing solar tiles within your home, you’re lowering the demand for other energy sources, saving the earth’s natural (and dwindling) resources without having to go without the electricity you need.
As a general rule, both solar panels and solar tiles are also incredibly energy-efficient, which can again prove useful to those who are looking to be more sustainable!
Lower energy bills.
While it is important to factor the cost of tile installation and maintenance into your calculations, various studies have found that switching to solar energy is a great way to save money on your monthly/yearly energy bills.
For example, a recent study from the Renewable Energy Hub found that upon installing a 4kW solar roof tile system, homeowners could expect to save over 50% on their energy bills.
This is a significant and welcome reduction, especially when you consider that many homeowners within the UK have struggled to keep up with rising energy bills in recent years. After all, while prices have stabilised somewhat over the past few months, around 4 in 10 billpayers are struggling to cover the cost of energy in 2024.
Improved aesthetics.
One of the biggest reasons why homeowners are reluctant to install solar panels within their homes, despite their clear benefits, is the fact that they are somewhat unsightly. After all, they are large units that must be affixed directly to roof tiles, which can detract somewhat from a property’s overall appearance or curb appeal. Solar tiles are the perfect middle ground in this regard, as their unique design resembles traditional roof tiles while still bringing forth the benefits of solar panels.
However, it is worth noting that they are not quite as efficient as solar panels. For example, while the average solar panel has 16-20% efficiency, solar tiles are slightly lower at 10%. Despite this, they remain a great choice for those looking to switch to a more sustainable energy source within the home.
Enhanced Curb Appeal.
When opting to install solar roof tiles, as opposed to solar panels, you’re also enhancing your curb appeal quite significantly. This is because their sleek yet simplistic appearance will ensure that your home does not look out of place when compared to other properties on your street.
Increased property value.
While they do require a significant investment, installing either solar panels or solar roof tiles on your home can also increase the overall value of your property while also making it much more attractive to buyers. In fact, a recent study found that 35% of buyers would be willing to spend an additional 10% on a property if it boasted eco-friendly features.
In addition to this, there is a growing trust among homeowners in solar energy. For example, while 60% of homeowners said they would buy a home with solar panels in 2022, this figure rose to 65% by 2023. As this trust grows, the demand for properties that already feature solar panels or tiles will grow, which is great news for those who are considering selling up in the coming years.
How much do solar tiles cost?
The exact cost of installing solar tiles on your property can vary depending on various factors. This includes the size and shape of your roof, energy needs, and the type of tiles you choose. However, it is worth noting that they are generally twice as expensive as solar panels – likely due to the extra work that must be carried out during the maintenance process.
Solar roof tiles UK prices.
As such, while the average cost of solar panel installation in the UK costs homeowners between £5,000 – £6,000, you should expect to spend £10,000 – £ 20,000 on solar tiles.
Where can I find the best deal for solar roof tile installation?
The easiest way to save big when installing solar roof tiles or other similar devices is to work with a trustworthy, reputable company, such as Heatable.
After all, their years of industry experience means that they can work quickly and effectively, installing high-performing solar roof tiles in record time. Furthermore, you can use their free quote generator to determine exactly how much you should expect to spend on the project ahead of time so that you can save up or adjust your budget if necessary.
However, you could also save money on installing solar roof tiles by using a price comparison website or signing up to a company’s mailing lists so that you can gain access to
How do you install solar tiles?
As with any kind of home renovation, solar tile installation is a task that simply must be left to the experts. After all, installing solar tiles means removing and replacing your current roofing and tiles – a task that would be difficult to complete safely and efficiently through DIY, no matter how skilled you may think you are.
As such, homeowners who are interested in solar tile installation should reach out to a local provider as soon as possible. They’ll be able to discuss your options with you in greater detail while also providing you with insight into the costs associated with this project.
On a similar note, if you are an electrician, you may want to consider adding solar tile or roof installation to the list of services you offer your clients. After all, studies have found that the demand for solar energy solutions grows year-on-year, making this an incredibly profitable addition to your catalogue. Government initiatives and global schemes, such as the desire to reach net 0, will also increase the demand for solar installation services.
There are many different ways in which you can begin offering these services within your business – though it’s important that you do not do so without first receiving ample training.
For example, you could complete our Domestic Electrical Installer Course, designed to support beginners and trade professionals looking to break into the lucrative and growing world of domestic electrical installation.
Experienced electricians who are looking for a more focused course that is built specifically around Solar PV installation can participate in our 5-day Solar PV Installation Course With Battery Storage. Not only will this talk you through the process of installing solar panels and tiles, but it will also touch upon topics such as solar system maintenance, fault finding and more. In short, it will provide you with the knowledge and insight you need to offer high-end solar panel installation services to your client while ensuring that you remain compliant with all of the relevant industry standards and regulations.
If you’d like to learn more about our courses, please do not hesitate to get in touch today. We’d be happy to discuss them in more detail so that you’re able to figure out which course is right for you, your employees, or your business at large.
Solar Roof Tiles vs. Solar Panels.
As mentioned above, there are many similarities between solar roof tiles and solar panels. For example, they both provide homeowners with the chance to run their homes a little more sustainably by reducing (or, in some cases, eliminating) their reliance on non-renewable energy sources, such as those derived from fossil fuels.
In addition to this, they are much more energy efficient, which means they are a great long-term investment for those looking to reduce their energy bills and expenses.
However, when asking whether it’s better to install solar panels or solar tiles, there are many different factors that you may want to consider before making the final decision.
- Overall costs. The cost of installing both solar panels and solar tiles can vary on a case-by-case basis, though it is largely dependent upon the size of the property and your overall energy needs. However, as a general rule, you should expect to spend around 50% more on solar tile installation due to the extra work this requires. As such, those operating with a strict budget may want to install solar panels over individual tiles.
However, in both cases, it’s worth noting that both solar panels and solar tiles are long-term investments that will, in time, pay for themselves. After all, using these systems to generate your own electricity will lower your energy bills quite considerably.
- Aesthetics. Perhaps the most obvious difference between solar roof tiles and solar panels is their appearance. Though they vary somewhat in shape and size, solar panels tend to be large, bulky devices which can be affixed to any area of your roof. Generally speaking, they are placed in the space that will receive the most direct sunlight instead of an area that may be a little more discrete. Solar tiles, however, will blend seamlessly into the rest of the roof tiles, appearing to be similar in both colour and texture. As such, you may want to base your decision on which solar energy system to install based on how you’d like your home to look.
How do you maintain solar roof tiles?
Solar roof tiles, much like solar panels, are known for being relatively low maintenance. This means that they are not a feature of your home that you have to dedicate endless hours of your time to keeping in check. However, regular and consistent maintenance can extend their lifespan while improving their overall performance. After all, the build-up of dirt and debris on the tiles can often slow down the amount of sunlight absorbed, resulting in lower energy outputs.
Fortunately, there are many steps you can take to keep your solar roof tiles in good check. For example, you should:
- Carry out regular inspections of your roof tiles. While some issues may not be immediately apparent, others, such as missing or dislodged tiles and the build-up of dirt and other contaminants, are relatively obvious. As such, you should carry out regular inspections of your tiles, keeping an eye out for any signs of damage. Remember, the sooner you act in these instances, the sooner the issue can be resolved. Taking swift action can also save you a lot of money, as it means you’re tackling a minor issue as opposed to a major one. If you are using a ladder to inspect your tiles, be sure to take all of the necessary safety precautions.
- Clean your tiles. Generally speaking, rainwater acts as a sufficient cleaner for both solar roof tiles and solar panels – and living in the UK, this is something that we never really go to long without. However, if you notice a significant build-up of dirt and debris, this is likely a sign that they need a good clean. Be sure to use specialist cleaning products when carrying out this task to avoid causing unnecessary damage to the tiles themselves or reducing their efficiency. As a general rule, you should clean your tiles every three months.
Are solar roof tiles worth it in the UK?
One of the biggest reasons why homeowners are reluctant to install solar roof tiles (or similar solar systems) on their properties is due to the fact that sunny days in the UK feel few and far between. As a result, if you have your reservations in relation to their functionality, you aren’t alone. However, despite popular misconception, the sun does not need to shine 24/7 in order for solar panels to work effectively, and they can continue to absorb sunlight on cloudy days.
As such, it is definitely worthwhile to consider installing solar roof tiles in the UK – especially when you consider the additional benefits associated with this endeavour, from improved energy efficiency to lower energy bills.
Final Thoughts.
While the terms are often used interchangeably, solar roof tiles and solar panels differ quite considerably when it comes to aesthetics and costs. However, both products are a great addition to any property, especially among homeowners who are looking to become a little more sustainable in their day-to-day lives.
Fortunately, the benefits associated with solar roof tile installation in the UK do not stop there! Regardless of which tile manufacturer you choose, the tiles are designed to complement your home’s exterior design, often blending seamlessly into the rest of your tiles. In some cases, this can even work to increase your home’s curb appeal, which can come in handy when selling your home. Not only that, but many buyers are willing to pay more for properties with eco-friendly features, such as solar panels and tiles, meaning that you can expect more money in your pocket when selling!
However, while some forms of home renovation can be carried out through DIY and a little online research, this is not one of them! Instead, reach out to a trusted, local provider who can carry out this work on your behalf. After all, this kind of partnership ensures that the task is completed to a high standard and as quickly and efficiently as possible. This will minimise any interruptions to your day-to-day routine while also ensuring that you keep yourself (and your family) safe.
You can ensure you’re getting the best possible deal when installing solar roof tiles by reaching out to different providers and using price comparison websites. However, while you may be a little put off by the installation fee, it’s worth considering the long-term benefits provided by solar roof tiles, which often pay for themselves over time. After all, they can significantly cut down the amount you spend each month on energy bills – something which many UK homeowners are currently struggling to get to grips with.
In short, while solar roof tiles may not yet be as popular as solar panels, they are definitely worth looking into if you are making the switch to renewable energy.
Solar Roof Tiles: FAQs.
How do solar roof tiles work?
The shingles used to create solar roof tiles are made from photovoltaic cells, which have the power to turn sunlight into electricity. Simply put, when the surface of the photovoltaic cells are able to absorb sunlight, turning it into an electrical current. This current is then fed into the homeowner’s electrical system, providing them with access to the energy they need.
What are the drawbacks of installing solar roof tiles?
Though there are many benefits tied to solar roof tile installation, from improved sustainability to lower energy bills, it is important that you understand their limitations ahead of time. For example, as discussed above, they are not yet as energy-efficient as solar panels.
It is also important that they are properly maintained and cared for to ensure that they continue to function at their desired standard. Otherwise, homeowners may have to rely on alternative energy sources, increasing their spending considerably.
Are solar roof tiles better than solar panels?
Right now, the majority of homeowners in the UK chose solar panels over solar tiles when making the switch to solar energy. This could be attributed to the fact that solar panels are slightly more efficient, meaning that they boast a better ROI over time. However, it is also worth taking into account that solar roof tiles are somewhat ‘new’, which could explain why their usage is less widespread right now.
What companies manufacture solar roof tiles in the UK?
Solar roof tiles are relatively new to the market compared to solar panels. However, this does not necessarily mean they are difficult to come by. In fact, you can buy solar roof tiles from a range of leading renewable energy manufacturers, including:
- GB-Sol. GB-Sol is one of the UK’s leading producers of solar roof tiles, known for their PV slate products, which, as the name suggests, are designed to closely resemble traditional slate tiles. This is great for homeowners living in older buildings or those who prefer this traditional yet classy aesthetic. Their tiles come with a 25-year warranty and are known for being incredibly durable.
- Tesla. While you may associate Tesla primarily with electric vehicles, they also produce a wide range of solar roof tiles, which are now available throughout the UK. Their tiles are available in a wide range of styles and are once again designed to complement your home’s overall design and appearance. While they are a little more expensive than some of the other roof tiles on this list, they also come with a 25-year warranty.
- Solex Energy. Solex Energy also manufactures cutting-edge solar roof tiles, and their products are available to both homeowners and those offering electrical services in the UK.
However, as referenced above, this is an industry that is growing rapidly year on year. As a result, this means that new products are continuously in development, and will be ready to be brought to market relatively quickly.
How long do solar roof tiles last?
The longevity of your solar roof tiles is, again, dependent upon a variety of factors, such as your ability to keep them in good condition, exposure to adverse weather conditions and the quality of the product itself. When cared for correctly, solar roof tiles can last over 40 years – helping the homeowner to save hundreds (if not thousands) of pounds while doing so!
Furthermore, many providers offer a 25-year warranty on their tiles. This means that if you encounter any issues during this time, they’re on hand to help!
Why are solar roof tiles more expensive than solar panels?
Right now, the cost of installing solar roof tiles in the UK is often twice as high as installing solar panels. The increase in fees is often reflected in the fact that the installation process is a little more complicated when installing solar tiles, as significant roofing work must be carried out. This means that any roofing professional must work for longer and carry out more complicated work, something which they must be fairly compensated for.
However, once installed, maintenance fees are largely the same, and both have a lifespan that often exceeds 20+ years. As such, the initial installation fee should not serve as a deterrent to those who generally prefer solar tiles to solar panels.
Furthermore, there are many ways in which you can cut down on the cost of solar roof tile installation, improving your ROI quite considerably. For example, you should be sure to reach out to numerous local providers ahead of time in order to receive as many quotes as possible. This way, you can ensure your latest home renovation project falls within your budget.
Do solar roof tiles work on cloudy days?
Solar panels work by converting sunlight into energy/electricity. As such, it’s easy to presume that a lack of direct sunlight means that they will not produce any energy whatsoever. Fortunately, this is not the case, and solar roof tiles remain operational on cloudy days, though their output may be slightly lower during this time.
What are other names for solar roof tiles?
Solar roof tiles are also referred to as solar shingles or solar slates. Though they are often discussed in the same contact as solar panels, due to the fact that they function in a similar way, they are rather different products and the names cannot be used interchangeably when describing them.
Do UK homeowners have to switch to renewable energy?
There are numerous government initiatives in place to encourage homeowners to switch to renewable energy or otherwise make more sustainable decisions when it comes to property management. This is borne from the simple fact that we need to make positive changes to protect the planet and environment for future generations, and all good change starts within the home!
As such, while you do not ‘have’ to switch to renewable energy, it is often recommended that you consider doing so. There are even systems in place to make this more affordable, such as the green deal, which provides you with access to a loan to cover the costs associated with making energy-saving improvements to your home.
How do I know if I can install solar roof tiles in my home?
While in the majority of cases, solar roof tile installation is relatively easy; there are some occasions when it is simply not possible. This is because the tiles often have to be placed at a specific angle in order to function effectively, which is not always possible based on the design or shape of a roof.
If you are unsure as to whether or not solar roof tile installation is right for you, you should reach out directly to an installation company who will be able to support you during this time. Whether you send over photos of your roof, or they visit your property directly, they’ll be able to discuss your options with you in more detail, or suggest alternatives in the cases where solar roof tile installation is simply out of the question.
However, there are many other factors that may determine whether solar roof tiles are the right choice for your home. For example, if you’re looking to keep the costs down as much as possible and are not too concerned with the aesthetics, you may prefer to install solar panels instead.
Are there any alternatives to solar energy?
If you’ve decided that solar roof tile and solar panels aren’t right for you but still want to make your home more sustainable, you’ll be pleased to hear that there are many alternatives you can consider – none of which require you to depend on the use of finite resources. For example, you could simply make the switch from your current provider to a company that utilises renewable resources, such as wind power!
