Photo used under Creative Commons from jhritz

If you are looking to add a solar power system to your residence but you absolutely hate the look and bulkiness of photo-valtaic panels (Solar Panels), than solar roof tiles or solar shingles might be exactly what your looking for.

Solar roof tiles are shingles that operate in he same way as solar panels. Meaning they use the same technology and properties as solar panels to generate electricity by using the suns natural photons to create DC which is then converted into AC for use within your home. Solar shingles are designed to look like regular roof tiles and come in many different shapes, sizes and colors. Because of this they are a much more subtle and aesthetically pleasing package plus they offer the same benefits of it’s bulkier counterparts such as drastically reduced electricity bills, and non negative affects on the environment. Win, win right?

When solar panel roof tiles first came out on the market they were quite expensive and traditional solar panel’s were ultimately a better choice economically. However in the last couple of years new technology has been incorporated into solar shingles making them much more efficient such as thin film (CIGS) or copper indium gallium selenide therefore driving the cost considerably done.

Installation time has also been greatly reduced by this new technology as well. Add to that the fact that you do not need to hire a solar installation crew to install the solar roof tiles, as the shingles are similarly attached to the roof as traditional roof shingles.

If your interested in saving a ton of money and consider yourself a little handy you can make your own tiles with easy to follow manuals. Take a look at solar roof tiles for more information.

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