When most people think of solar energy, traditional solar panels are the first thing that comes to mind. Those familiar rectangular models now installed on over 4 million residential and commercial properties across Australia have become ubiquitous with the solar aesthetic.

Whilst most buyers aren’t too fussed about the aesthetic impact of solar panels on their roof design, others are seeking more visually appealing, integrated solutions to suit their homes’ design.

Solar shingles or solar roof tiles are part of a growing market of building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) solar products that offer a more seamless and aesthetically pleasing way to generate solar.

So then, how do solar shingles compare to traditional solar panels when it comes to cost, reliability, and suitability? We break down the key differences between solar tiles and solar panels to help you understand your options.

What are solar roof tiles?

Solar roof tiles, also known as solar slates or solar shingles, are mini solar panels that look like conventional roof tiles and seamlessly blend into your roof. Solar roof shingles come in various colours and designs to match your home’s aesthetic.

Solar tiles can either be installed on a new roof build, or they can be retrofitted to your roof to replace an area of existing tiles. Solar roof tiles provide all of the same functionality as solar panels but are intended to provide a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to conventional solar panels.

How solar roof tiles work

Solar roof tiles work in much the same way that solar panels work. The tiles serve as individual panels and capture sunlight to generate electricity. An inverter is needed to convert the Direct Current to Alternate Current for use in the home.

Pros

Aesthetically pleasing: Solar tiles present an aesthetically appealing alternative to traditional solar panels. For many, the visual impact of solar panels is easily outweighed by the savings they offer. However, for those who prioritise the appearance of their property above all else, solar shingles provide an attractive option.

Ideal for smaller roof spaces: Solar shingles integrate into your existing roof design, making them ideal for homes with limited space that may be unsuitable for traditional solar panels. Each tile functions as both a roofing material and an energy converter, which means that they will work with almost any existing roof shape.

Suitable for a range of roof layouts: Insufficient space is one of the most common reasons why a home may not be a suitable candidate for solar panels. Solar shingles are an ideal alternative for those with small or awkward roof layouts that may not be suitable for traditional solar panels.

Weather and storm-resistant: Solar tiles lay flat on the roof’s surface, making them more durable and storm-resistant than most solar panels. For properties located in areas like North Queensland that are more prone to strong winds and cyclone conditions, solar tiles offer a durable alternative to traditional solar panels.

Cons

Higher unit cost: As a general rule, solar tiles are around 2-3 times more expensive than a comparable solar panel setup. Given that the average cost for a 6.6kW solar system setup with solar panels in Australia is around $6,000 – $7,000, the cost difference between solar panels and shingles is significant and will deter many potential buyers.

Higher installation cost: Solar shingles are more expensive to purchase and install than solar panels. Solar tile installation requires advanced planning and the removal of existing roof tiles to integrate them into the roof.

Limited options: Compared to conventional solar panels, solar tile options are fewer. The limited options also contribute to the notable price difference between panels and tiles. As we saw with solar panels, as more options come to market, the prices will invariably go down.

Lower efficiency than solar panels: Solar tiles have an average efficiency of 10 – 15%, which is around 35-40% lower than the 17 – 24% efficiency typically seen in standard solar panels.

What are solar panels?

Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic panels, PV panels, or PV modules, are the most popular and cost-effective way to turn sunlight into electricity. In Australia, over 4 Million properties have solar panels installed, and double-digit percentage growth in uptake is forecast over the next five years.

Pros

• Cost-effective
• High efficiency
• Simple installation
• Plenty of options
• Simple maintenance

Cons

• Aesthetic impact on roof
• Not ideal for all roof types
• Approval is required for some buildings
• Key differences between solar roof tiles and solar panels

Solar roof tiles vs. solar panels – which is better?

We compare solar roof tiles to conventional solar panels based on a number of key criteria to establish which technology is better.

1. Cost

Solar panels: Lower upfront cost and lower cost of installation.

Solar tiles: Higher upfront cost (2-3 times more expensive than solar panels) and higher cost of installation.

Winner: Solar panels

2. Efficiency

Solar panels: Solar panels have an efficiency range of 17 – 24%.

Solar tiles: Solar tiles have a lower efficiency rating than solar panels, with an average efficiency range of 10 – 15%.

Winner: Solar panels

3. Aesthetics

Solar panels: Solar panels are more noticeable than solar tiles.

Solar tiles: Solar tiles are a sleeker, integrated alternative to solar panels and are ideal for design-conscious homeowners or those with heritage homes that are working within tight design regulations.

Winner: Solar tiles

4. Installation simplicity

Solar panels: Solar panels are faster and easier to install with more installers available in all cities across Australia.

Solar tiles: Solar tiles, particularly when retrofitting on an existing roof, require careful planning and measuring before being installed to ensure that they fit perfectly.

Winner: Solar panels

5. Suitability for roof types

Solar panels: May not be suitable for smaller roofs.

Solar tiles: Not suitable for non-tile roofs.

Winner: Tie – depends on the individual

6. Durability & weather resistance

Solar panels: May be more exposed and less storm-resistant.

Solar tiles: Flat design makes them more durable and storm-resistant, ideal for harsh climates.

Winner: Solar tiles

7. Options & availability

Solar panels: More options, more retailers, and more competition means that there are better deals thanks to higher competition in the market.

Solar tiles: Fewer models and fewer installers in Australia. The number is growing, however, it is currently well behind solar panels.

Winner: Solar panels

8. Maintenance

Solar panels: Simple to maintain with plenty of approved cleaning specialists who can take care of the cleaning and ongoing solar panel maintenance.

Solar tiles: More integrated, fewer maintenance specialists and higher cost of replacement for broken tiles when compared to solar panels.

Winner: Solar panels

Solar roof tiles vs solar panels – Our verdict

Choosing between solar panels and solar tiles isn’t an apple-for-apple comparison. The difference in price and efficiency is too vast to make a direct comparison.

For those looking for an aesthetically appealing building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) alternative to solar panels, solar tiles are an ideal alternative. For those looking for a cost-effective and efficient way to generate solar energy, traditional solar panels remain the best choice.