Explore the Best Solar Roof Shingles for Your Home in 2024
                     Explore the 
Best Solar 
Roof
Shingles for 
Your Home in 
2024
Harnessing the power of the sun is not only environmentally friendly but also 
reduces
electricity bills. Before investing in solar panels, it's wise to explore different 
options in the solar market. Solar shingles are an excellent choice for 
homeowners seeking to add value to their properties. Photovoltaic 
shingles are newer than solar PV modules. Due to their smaller size, more 
solar shingles are needed to power your home compared to
solar panels. In this article, let’s examine some of the best solar roof shingles 
available
for your home in 2023.
What Are Solar Shingles?
Solar shingles are thin sheets of PV material designed to replace traditional 
roof
shingles. Developed by Dow Chemical, they offer homeowners an affordable 
and aesthetically pleasing option for harnessing solar energy. Besides 
electricity production, these shingles serve as a durable and weather-resistant 
roofing material.
Composition and Working Mechanism
PV shingles are usually made from copper indium gallium selenide, known for 
high
conversion efficiency rates (approximately 10-12%). Some manufacturers 
use monocrystalline silicon (mono-Si), which has an efficiency rate of about 
15-20% but is pricier than TFSC. Solar shingles absorb sunlight and convert 
it into electricity, helping homeowners save on monthly bills and eventually 
recoup their initial investments.
Size and Power Output
Solar shingles are 12 inches wide, 86 inches long, and weigh about 15 to 20 
pounds per
square foot. They produce 13 to 63 watts of power. Typically, installing 
around 350
solar shingles can reduce your average utility bill by 40 to 70%. 
However, an energy inverter kit is needed to utilize the captured 
sunlight.
Solar Shingles Vs. Solar Panels
Solar Panels
1. Energy Production: Solar panels generate at least 280 watts, while 
shingles produce 13 to 70 watts.
2. Heat Efficiency: Solar panels allow heat to escape, cooling them and 
maximizing electricity production.
3. Installation Time: Panels are installed in about one to three days, 
whereas shingles take at least a week.
4. Cost Savings: Solar PV modules can reduce your electricity bill by 75%, 
compared to 40-70% with shingles.
5. Technology: Solar panels have been developed for a century, while 
shingles have been around since 2005.
Solar Shingles
1. Aesthetics: Solar shingles are sleek and resemble standard rooftops.
2. Size and Weight: Lightweight and require around 350 shingles for a roof.
3. Durability: Resistant to harsh weather conditions.
4. Roof Replacement: Ideal for new roofs or home construction.
5. Maintenance: Easier to clean than solar panels.
Cost Comparison
A solar roof costs $40,000 to $65,000 for a 2000-square-foot home, while an 
average
solar array installation costs $10,000 to $20,000 after rebates and incentives. 
Solar
panels are more efficient, effective, flexible, and affordable, especially for 
those on a budget.
Conclusion
Solar shingles offer a sleek and attractive option for harnessing solar 
energy while
integrating seamlessly with existing roofs. Although they are a developing 
technology, solar shingles are weather-resistant and require less 
maintenance compared to solar
PV modules. While they may be more expensive and offer limited style and 
color options, many brands are working towards creating the best solar roof 
shingles for homeowners. As technology advances, solar shingles have the 
potential to revolutionize how we generate and utilize solar energy. Act now 
to explore and invest in the best solar roof shingles for your home in 2024.