Homeowners who are interested in renewable energy sources but are hesitant to install large solar panels on their roofs may find solar roof tiles to be a more appealing alternative. In this article, readers will learn about the solar roof tiles cost, factors that affect the cost, and ways to save money on installation.
The article will also cover the installation process of solar roof tiles, how to find and hire an installer, and other important considerations for those interested in this renewable energy source.
How Much Do Solar Roof Tiles Cost?
The cost of solar roof tiles is dependent on various factors, including the size of the system, labour costs, and installation time. A 1kW system is estimated to cost between £8,000 to £10,000, with an estimated supply cost of £5,000 to £8,000 and an additional labour cost of at least £2,000. The installation time for a 1kW system is approximately one week.
For a 2kW system, the estimated supply cost is between £8,000 to £12,000, with an additional labour cost of at least £2,000. The installation time for a 2kW system is also approximately one week. This would make a total estimated cost of between £10,000 to £15,000.
For a 3kW system, the estimated supply cost increases to between £10,000 to £14,000, with an additional labour cost of at least £2,000. The installation time for a 3kW system is approximately two weeks. This would make a total estimated cost of between £12,000 to £16,000.
The largest system size in this selection is the 4kW system, which has an estimated supply cost of between £12,000 to £16,000. Adding the minimum amount of £2,000 labour fee and one-week installation period will level out at £14,000 to £20,000 in total.
It is worth noting that specific solar tile suppliers have different pricing structures. For example, Tesla’s solar roof tiles cost roughly £18 per square foot, which can equate to a total cost of around £35,000 for a 2,000-square-foot roof area when converted from USD.
GB Sol’s slate PV tiles, produced in Wales, are a great solution for homeowners struggling to get planning permission for their solar tiles. Solecco offers both terracotta and black roof tiles, while Nulok offers solar tiles that are capable of generating 20% more power than their older models.
What Affects the Cost of Solar Roof Tiles?
When considering the cost of solar roof tiles, there are several factors to keep in mind. Here are the most common factors that can affect the cost of solar roof tiles.
The Number of Solar Tiles Installed and The Size of Your Roof
The number of solar tiles installed and the size of your roof are the primary factors that determine the overall cost of solar roof tiles. The larger the area of your roof, the more solar tiles you will need to install, resulting in higher overall costs. Solar tiles are about the same size as traditional roofing shingles, with the average size being about 12 inches wide by 86 inches long, and weighing about 13 pounds per square.
The Condition of Your Roof
The condition of your roof is another important factor to consider when installing solar tiles. Some solar tiles can be installed over existing roof tiles, while others require roof tiles to be removed. If your roof is in poor condition, you will need to pay for the cost of repairs before your roofer can install the solar tiles.
Ease of Access
For properties with difficult roof access, such as taller properties, you can expect to pay more in labor costs for the installation of your solar tiles. This is because your roof is harder to reach, needing scaffolding or lifting machinery to access. For smaller properties or those in single-storey homes such as bungalows, the price will be lower by contrast as the ease of access is better.
Your Location
Your geographical location can also impact the cost of solar roof tiles. Those in cities and the capitals can expect to pay more than their neighbors in rural locales. Additionally, if you live on a main road or somewhere without a driveway or good access to your roof, you may need to block off parts of the road or pavement for the installation, which will again cost you more and require you to get parking permits – again, all coming at extra cost.
In summary, the cost of solar roof tiles is influenced by the number of solar tiles installed and the size of your roof, the condition of your roof, ease of access, and your location. It is important to take these factors into account when considering the cost of solar roof tiles for your home.
How Can I Save Money on Solar Roof Tiles?
One of the best ways to save money on solar roof tiles is to compare quotes from different installers. This can help you find the best deal and potentially reduce the cost of your solar power project.
Enrolling in the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is another way to save money on your solar tiles. This initiative is a way to provide small-scale generators of renewable electricity payment for any energy they export to the national grid.
The Energy Savings Trust estimates that homeowners who are in their houses all day can save up to £610 per year with the SEG, while they’ll save up to £500 per year without SEG enrolment. Those who are out all day until 6 pm can see savings of up to £360 per year with SEG sign-up, and £205 without SEG contributions.
It is important to note that this information relates to energy bill savings when paired with solar panels, not roof tiles, but the information can relate to the predicted savings seen by solar roof tile installation.
Taking a DIY route with household renovations is usually a surefire way to cut costs in labour and reduce your overall project bill, but when it comes to solar roof tiles, it is not recommended to install the tiles yourself.
This is because it’s a complex and potentially dangerous job. What’s more, if you’re installing solar tiles to qualify for the SEG system, you’ll need the tiles to be installed by a qualified installer and provide proof of this to be able to receive tax-free payments.
Solar roof tiles are more expensive than solar panels, with a price difference of up to 100%, and the price difference is not likely to come down any time soon because it’s a smaller market than the solar panel market and there’s much less competition between manufacturers.
Solar panels are the more affordable option, which can make renewable energy easier to install for some homeowners who are less concerned about the overall roof aesthetic.
What’s Involved in Installing Solar Tiles?
To install solar tiles, the existing roof tiles must be removed, and the roof must be prepped for the solar tiles. The installation process starts from the edge of the roof upwards towards the peak, with the tiles being laid in place to create the desired shape.
Inside the loft or roof space, there will be a connection point that joins the solar roof tiles with electrical cables and an inverter. The electricity generated by the solar roof tiles is DC power, and the inverter changes this into AC power that can be used by the home.
Homeowners can now keep the surplus electricity they create via a solar battery storage system. As more and more homeowners are looking to reduce their energy bills, solar tiles are becoming an increasingly popular option for generating clean energy.
How Do I Know If Solar Tiles Are Right For Me?
Solar roof tiles can be a smart investment for homeowners who want to add value to their property and reduce their annual electricity costs. However, before installing solar tiles, homeowners should consider the advantages and disadvantages of this technology to determine if it is right for them.
Advantages of solar tiles include their ability to add value to properties and reduce annual electricity costs by up to 50%. Additionally, solar tiles can be easier to get permission for installation in properties located in conservation or listed areas, where planning permissions for traditional solar panels may be less likely to be approved.
However, homeowners should also consider the disadvantages of solar tiles. Solar tiles are more expensive than traditional solar panels, and their installation time is considerably longer. Solar tiles can also be harder to source than traditional panels.
Before purchasing solar tiles, homeowners should check with their local authority to ensure that planning permissions will be granted for their installation. Once installed, solar roof tiles can generate a significant amount of the electricity a household uses, reducing the amount of power that homeowners have to buy from their utility company. This can bring down the value of the monthly direct debit paid for electricity.
For example, a 4kW solar roof tile system can potentially save a household 50% on its annual energy charges, which could be a significant amount of money for homeowners with high electricity bills. However, a 1kW system may only produce savings closer to 15%.
Overall, homeowners should weigh the advantages and disadvantages of solar tiles and consider their personal situation before deciding if solar tiles are the right choice for them.
Are Solar Roof Tiles Covered by the New Green Homes Grant?
The new Green Homes Grant scheme by the UK government provides vouchers of £5,000 to £10,000 for energy-saving renovations to homeowners and landlords in England. However, solar PV roof tiles are not covered by the scheme.
Solar thermal panels, on the other hand, are part of the primary measures covered by the Green Homes scheme. In case the Green Homes Grant does not cover the cost of thermal panels, the Renewable Heat Incentive can help pay back the installation cost every quarter over a period of 7 years.
Solar Roof Tiles vs Solar Panels
Solar roof tiles and solar panels both use photovoltaic (PV) cells to convert sunlight into electricity. However, there are several key differences between them.
Firstly, solar panels are mounted on top of the roof, while solar roof tiles are installed alongside traditional roof tiles. This means that solar panels are more visible and less aesthetically pleasing than solar roof tiles.
Secondly, the UK has a wider range of solar panels available compared to solar roof tiles. This is because solar roof tiles are a relatively new technology and are not as obtainable.
Thirdly, solar panels are less expensive than solar roof tiles. For example, in the UK, solar panel roof tiles cost an average of £10,000 for 3kW, while solar panels cost £5,000 for the same power output.
Fourthly, solar roof tiles cannot be fitted on an existing roof, whereas solar panels can.
Lastly, solar roof tiles are most suited for listed properties or conservation areas, while solar panels are better suited for other types of properties.
In summary, while both solar roof tiles and solar panels have their advantages and disadvantages, the choice between the two ultimately depends on the individual’s needs and preferences.
How Do I Find and Hire an Installer?
Finding the right solar tile installer can be challenging, but there are ways to make the process easier.
Another option is to seek recommendations from family, friends, and neighbors. While solar tile installation is still a niche market, it’s worth asking around to see if anyone has experience with local and reputable installers.
When looking for an installer, it’s important to verify that they are experienced in installing solar tiles specifically, as opposed to solar panels. Solar tiles are a relatively new product in the UK and are mainly supplied by GB Sol and Solecco. It’s also important to double-check that the installer is using high-quality solar tiles to ensure maximum efficiency and longevity.
While Solarcentury used to sell solar tiles, they have since been discontinued in favor of integrated solar panels. It’s important to be aware of these distinctions when shopping for solar tile installers. By taking the time to research and compare options, homeowners can find a reliable and experienced installer to help them make the most of their solar tile investment.
Ensuring the Professional Is the Right Fit
When it comes to finding a professional to install solar roof tiles, it is important to ensure that the tradesperson is competent and qualified. The reliability of your home’s energy system will depend on the proper installation of the solar power.
To begin with, it is recommended to obtain a written quote from the tradesperson. This will give you a clear idea of the total cost of the project and help you avoid any unexpected charges at the end.
It is also important to review the trader’s previous experience and work. Look for photos or videos of their previous projects to get an idea of their workmanship. Additionally, seeking recommendations from past clients can provide valuable insight into the trader’s reliability and quality of work.
Moreover, it is crucial to ensure that the tradesperson has insurance to fit and install the roof tiles. Double-check the warranty period attached to the tiles to ensure that you are aware of any potential issues that may arise within a few months or years of installation.
By taking these steps, you can be confident that you have found the right professional to install your solar roof tiles, and that your home’s energy system will be reliable and efficient.
Final Checklist
Before embarking on a solar roof tile installation project, homeowners should consider a few factors to ensure a successful outcome. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Determine if solar tiles are the right choice for your home. While they maintain the aesthetic of your property, solar panels may be more cost-effective and energy-efficient.
- Check with local councils if your home is in a conservation area or if it is a listed building to ensure that you can proceed with the work.
- Register with the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) to benefit from the payback scheme and make the most of your surplus solar energy.
By following this final checklist, homeowners can ensure that their solar roof tile installation project is successful and they can enjoy the benefits of renewable energy while maintaining the aesthetic of their property. If you need more information on solar roof tiles cost or any other related matters, do get in touch with our team at Premier Roofing Solutions.
