Have you seen Solar Shingles?

We’ve all seen solar panels on the rooftops but fewer people know about solar shingles. Solar shingles are rare in Edmonton, but the solar trend is definitely growing as more people are learning about their long-term benefits and reduced cost. According to the latest statistics from Solar Energy Society of Alberta, there are over 1,770 solar systems installed in Alberta and the annual solar generation is over 18,145,335 Kwh.

What are solar shingles?

Solar shingles are photovoltaic (PV) building products. They are roof shingles with the function of converting the sunlight to electricity. Just like solar panels, solar shingles’ PV parts are made from crystalline silicon solar cells. The main differences between solar panels and shingles are cost and outward appearance.

Solar shingles are an integrated part of the roof; therefore, homeowners only pay for material and installation once. Solar panels, on the other hand, are a suspended plate on the roof, and therefore homeowners need to pay for the solar panels separately from the cost of their roof.  

Solar shingle benefits

Solar shingles have several distinct advantages compared to solar panels:

• Solar panels are a racking system, which includes several fasteners penetrating the roof. This will void the asphalt shingle warranty. Solar shingles are an integrated part of your roofing system and there are no additional fasteners penetrating the roof.
• The installation process for solar shingles is the same as installing asphalt shingles on the roof. No building permit is required.
• Re-roofing can be costly when having solar panels. The solar panels need to removed and then re-installed when the roof replacement is complete. Solar shingles can simply stay on top of the roof until reaching the end of their lifespan, which is approximately 40 years.

Thinking about installing solar shingles? Call 780-246-7597 to schedule a free assessment and consultation.

What is included in the assessment?

• Face true south or close to true south
• No shading from trees or buildings to the south
• Roof structure examination
• Proximity to grid connection point, and access for installation and maintenance
• Solar shingle area needed and approximate electricity generated
• Determine the cost-effectiveness of the investment