Introduction to Solar Roof Tiles
As homeowners and businesses look to blend renewable energy with aesthetics, solar roof tiles are emerging as an elegant and practical solution. They offer the clean energy benefits of solar panels while preserving—or even enhancing—the architectural integrity of your property.
What Are Solar Roof Tiles?
Just like their panel counterparts, solar roof tiles convert sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic cells. Each tile is manufactured for UK weather conditions using high-efficiency monocrystalline cells encased in ultra-durable, toughened glass. The system is designed to optimise solar power even in low light and poor weather conditions, providing reliable solar energy generation all year-round.
Some solar tile models are genuine roof tiles that have integrated solar cells constructed into the actual roof tiles.
When sunlight strikes the tiles, the PV cells generate direct current (DC) electricity, which is then converted into alternating current (AC) by an inverter for use in your home or fed back into the national grid.
Our range of solar roof tiles are designed for end users who want to harness the power of the sun without the bulky appearance of traditional solar panels.
What are the differences between Solar Roof Tiles and Traditional Solar Panels?
The primary difference between solar tiles and traditional solar panels lies in their integration with the roof structure and their aesthetic impact. While both harness solar energy to produce electricity, they do so in distinct ways:
- Appearance: Traditional solar panels are typically bulky large rectangular modules that are mounted on top of an existing roof. Solar roof tiles are manufactured to look like traditional roof tiles designed it integrate seamlessly within the roof, often referred to as 'invisible solar' they provide a much more discreet and aesthetically pleasing result.
- Efficiency: While Solar tiles are typically slightly less efficient than traditional solar panels, there are cases where solar tiles actually outperform the traditional panels, including where there is shading on the property which can reduce the efficiency of panels.
- Installation: Solar tiles usually require a full roof replacement as they become part of the roof structure itself, this makes solar tiles the perfect choice for new build developments, or for clients who are looking at replacing their existing roofs.
- Cost of solar tiles: Currently solar tiles are typically more expensive than traditional solar panels, however it is worth considering that you are effectively getting a brand new roof included with installation of the solar tiles. As with all solar pv systems eventually the solar tiles will pay for themselves with the savings made on energy bills.
- Lifespan: As with solar panels, solar tiles can last up to 30 years.
TBS Solar range of Solar Tiles
Information on our range of Solar tiles can be found on our solar roof tile page. We are the only UK supplier to offer red solar tiles, designed for conservation areas and for customers looking to match terracotta roof systems. All our systems are fully MCS certified and installed by NAPIT-accredited professionals.
Summary:
Solar roof tiles are no longer just a futuristic concept—they are a viable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing option for renewable energy. They blend seamlessly into your roof, generate clean power, and enhance property value and appeal.
As technology costs continue to decline and awareness grows, expect solar roof tiles to become increasingly mainstream—especially where architectural character matters.
- Aesthetics: Solar tiles blend perfectly with the rest of your roof, maintaining the architectural integrity and curb appeal of your home. For heritage properties or those in conservation areas, where traditional solar panels might face planning restrictions, solar tiles offer a beautiful, discreet alternative.
- Durability: As they are your roof, solar tiles are built to withstand the elements just like any high-quality roofing material. They are designed to be robust and long-lasting, protecting your home while also generating power.
- Maintenance: Solar tiles are very low maintenance, and tend to just need to be kept clear of debris. Traditional solar panels are known to have the issue of birds building nests behind the panels.
