Don't let your rooftop shingles just lay there—put them to work! Thin-film photovoltaic (PV) cells are now doubling as roof shingles. A new building material, these solar shingles harness sunlight to generate electricity that can power your home.
Few power-generating technologies have as little impact on the environment as photovoltaics. When operating, PV systems produce no pollution or noise, and they require no fuel (other than the sun) to run them. What's more, they're infinitely renewable, as long as the sun shines. Also, solar shingles can save homeowners up to 60% on their monthly energy costs.
The energy generated by solar shingles can provide power both to the home and to the utility's power grid. While PV systems are capable of powering houses and small businesses without any connection to the electricity grid, many people prefer the advantages that grid-connection offers. This is because any excess electricity you produce is fed back into the grid. When you need it, electricity from the grid supplies your needs, thus eliminating the expense of electricity storage devices like batteries.
Solar shingles offer many advantages:
- They provide the same protection, durability, and flexibility as asphalt shingles.
- They're visually appealing, designed to blend with standard roofs and normal home construction.
- They replace roofing material—additional materials underneath aren't necessary.
- Installation costs are low.
- They're lightweight.
When considering whether solar shingles are right for your house, think about whether you have a sunny spot free of shading on the roof. Ideally, they should be mounted in a south-facing location. If a southern location isn't available, west- or east-facing locations can provide better than 90% of the power of a true south-facing system. In general, small homes will need a 10 X 12 area for solar shingles, while a larger home can require up to 1,000 square feet.
There are a number of special financing options and incentives available to help offset the cost of adding solar power to your home. The Department of Energy (DOE) lists resources to check to see if incentives are available in your area.
Solar shingles are an attractive, environmentally friendly way for reducing energy costs. Learn more about solar power by visiting the DOE website.
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