As an advanced technology, solar shingles (or solar roof tiles) are getting more and more popular among Canadians. These shingles are built to capture solar energy without disruption to the architecture of the building. They are part of a larger technology group called Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV), which includes such things as solar window, cladding, facade, and other elements.
The shift towards solar shingles is not only in line with global initiatives to lower greenhouse emission levels but also compatible with the world's progress in transitioning to renewable energy. This piece will discuss the provision, advantages and obstacles of solar shingles in Canada.
Understanding Solar Shingles
As stated at the beginning, this is a kind of sunlight energy technology that utilizes typical roofing materials for producing electricity. They are an example of daylight power systems, within the Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) class.
Solar shingles are PV panels that go alongside or replace current shingles of a roof. They get energy from the sun and they transform it into electricity. The resulting decrease in their electricity bills will help homeowners recoup the initial expenses.
This shingle is about 12 inches wide and 86 inches long. It further weighs thirteen pounds per square foot. They feature a thickness of less than 1 inch that is made out of copper indium gallium selenide. As a result, this makes them thin and flexible. Moreover, there are some types of shingles that are made from monocrystalline silicon. These cases have an efficiency rate of about 20%, but they are considerably more expensive.
Remember, most of the shingles have the ability to generate between 13 to 63 watts of power. But on the average, a roof with solar tiles can cut down the power consumption by 40% to 70%. The electricity generation of the setup can also be boosted by increasing the number of daylight tiles.
Difference Between Solar Panels & Shingles
These are two cutting-edge technologies for converting daylight into electricity. However, there are some main differences between them.
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Solar Panels
One of the key advantages of rooftop solar panels is their universal nature and high feasibility for installation on almost every roof, making them a very eligible option. They are intended to be installed right on your roof. Among the main benefits of the solar panels is their capabilities to reach maximum energy production. The installation angle is adjustable to permit optimal solar exposure of each panel. This is not applicable to solar shingles, which are not flexible to the direction of the roof. There are 2 solar panels we recommend for your home or travel use.
The system boasts a 420W capacity and a 23.4% conversion rate. It is foldable, compact, and includes a stand to support it in any place. Furthermore, it is tough, splash-proof, and has a long-wearing ETFE coating. It matches up with numerous BLUETTI models, and users especially admire it for its high efficiency and excellent quality of construction.
This monocrystalline option has a 23.4 percent optimal efficiency. It’s foldable, travel-ready, and able to connect to the majority of solar generators featuring MC4 connectors. The PV120 also has a long-term ETFE coating and 12 months warranty for reassurance. Similarly, some users have praised its good performance and sturdy construction.
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Solar Shingles
However, the solar shingles are the little versions of photovoltaic panels. They are fitted into the upper part of the roof which allows comparatively lower visible elevation. They look like old roofing materials such as asphalt, but with the additional bonus of electricity generation. Nevertheless, solar shingles do not work as well as solar panels, and they are extremely expensive. But, they are weather-proof and fire-proof, something in which solar panels do not possess.
To sum up, a decision between the two is affected by your personal requirements and situation. If you’re on a tight budget and you’re looking to save some money, panels are a key choice. However, if aesthetics are a factor for you or you need materials that would match your roof because of Homeowner Association requirements, the solar shingles will then be a better option for you.
How Much Do Solar Shingles Cost?
The cost can vary widely depending on the size of your roof and the exact product you select. Normally, you are supposed to pay between 21-25$ for each square foot. This will mean around $2100 to $2500 for each square of a standard single-level home.
Although the initial cost might be much higher than the traditional solar collectors, their use reduces the electricity bill significantly over time. In addition, homeowners in Canada can receive a $5000 – $40000 Canada Greener Homes Loan which has a zero interest rate over a period of 10 years. This may even mitigate the initial investment in solar shingles.
Pros & Cons of Solar Singles
The shingles offer great aesthetics by giving a sleek and integrated appearance that many homeowners are beginning to choose. Nevertheless, the technologies have their benefits and bad sides.
Pros of Solar Shingles
- Aesthetics: They have a sleek look that merges well with the roof.
- Durability: They were built to stand against all the elements, therefore, being a quality option.
- Maintenance: Maintenance of these choices is simpler than solar panels.
- Cost-effective for new roofs: From the perspective of building a new roof, the installation of the shingles is a cost-effective deal.
Cons of Solar Shingles
- Efficiency: They are much less efficient than conventional solar panels. Besides, the majority of these tiles have a power output of 13 to 63 watts approximately.
- Cost: The initial cost is more than that of the installing panels.
- Limited Style Options: There is a limitation on the aesthetic choices when it comes to these options as compared to regular roofing materials.
- Specialized Installation: Installing them requires specialized experts.
- Newer Technology: Being a newer technology, they may not have been around for as long as solar panels.
How Many Solar Shingles Does Your Canadian Home Need?
Based on the size of the house, the amount of sunlight the roof is exposed to as well as the energy needs of the household, the number of solar shingles required for a Canadian house varies.
Solar shingles are about as big as regular shingles, with averages ranging from 12 inches by 86 inches long. Roughly 350 tiles are required to complete a solar roof, on average. Also, most of the shingles will generate 13 to 63 watts of energy depending on the type and size.
The typical house of this size generates between 10 to 15 kilowatts of power, with 1200 to 1800 solar shingles needed to obtain this yield. This will decrease utility bills by 40-70%. Besides, adding more tiles (modules), you can increase the energy production.
But it should be remembered that a regular Canadian household consumes approximately 9000 kWh of energy annually. Thus, to boost productivity and efficiency, a 8 kW solar system will be enough for most homes.
In the end, the number of solar shingles required for a Canadian home can range extensively. For that, it is advised to carry out a site survey that will calculate an optimum amount, and so provide enough power to meet the home energy needs without wasting any.
Factors To Consider When Choosing Solar Shingles
When deciding on solar shingles, a few things are worth taking into account:
- Energy Requirements: Knowledge of your home’s energy requirements is fundamental to the decision-making process of how many solar shingles to purchase. The energy output of solar shingles differs from product to product and technology, with each shingle being able to output an electricity of 13 to 63 watts on average.
- Cost and Budget: Solar shingles tend to be significantly more expensive than the usual solar panels. While these could be relatively costly, they are cost-effective if you are putting up a new roof.
- Efficiency: Usually, solar shingles are weaker as they have no ventilation under the panels. Nevertheless, they are known for their high efficiency and the best power conversion ratio.
- Aesthetics: In contrast to the bulky solar panel arrays, solar shingles don’t stand out but blend with the aesthetic of your home, resulting in a much cleaner and more integrated energy solution.
- Warranty Options: It is necessary to choose those solar shingles with good warranties.
- Brand Reputation: It’s crucial to select solar shingles from reliable manufacturers.
- Roof Condition: The current roof condition is one of the most important points to take into account when installing solar shingles.
Final Thoughts
With Canada on the way to being green, solar shingles share an amazing blend of renewable energy technology and home design. They provide Canadians with a way of harvesting the much readily available solar energy even in the northern colder regions of the country. With the country’s directive of cutting greenhouse gases emissions and the public’s growing awareness of sustainable lifestyle, the solar shingles market is growing fast and steadily. Some remarkable businesses are up for the task and present Canadian families with different solar shingle options. Although an initial investment can be formidable, future energy savings as well as possible financial support from the government make this solar shingle option cost-effective in the long run. Turning to the future, solar shingles in Canada becomes not a choice, but a matter of time.
