Solar panels, solar roofs, and solar shingles may capture the power of the sun, but are they 100% efficient and effective as the sun itself? In this article, we’ll give you an eye-opening look into solar roofing material, the benefits of solar roofs and solar shingles, and why it may be worth it for you to make the switch away from traditional asphalt shingles … if you’re not afraid of the upfront costs.
Let’s dig in!
Table Of Contents:
- The Science Behind Solar Panel Efficiency
- The Incentives to Switch to Solar Energy
- The Impact of Solar Roofing on Electric Costs
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
The Science Behind Solar Panel Efficiency
You might think solar panels use every ray of sunshine that hits them. But that’s a fallacy. Solar panels actually can’t absorb infrared light and can only absorb some UV light.
This is because solar cells are designed to capture visible light, which makes up about half of the sun’s electromagnetic radiation hitting your roof.
However, despite their selective nature, solar panels actually generate more power than you’d imagine. In fact, if we were to harness just one-and-a-half hours worth of sunlight falling on earth at full intensity, that would cover our entire global energy consumption for a full year.
In fact, solar shingles work in two, essential ways: they protect your home from weather while generating power. They also blend seamlessly into traditional roofing materials making them more aesthetically pleasing than standard panel setups.
The Incentives to Switch to Solar Energy
The cost of going solar has significantly decreased over the years due to advancements in technology and increased demand, but it can still be a big upfront expense, especially if you’re satisfied with your existing roof setup. That’s where incentives come into play.
Many states offer attractive incentives and financing options for employing solar power which could potentially make your monthly payments less than what you currently pay for electricity. One popular program is The Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). This allows homeowners who install solar panels on their homes to deduct over 25% of the cost from their federal taxes.
Beyond national programs, local initiatives also exist like Ohio’s Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard (RPS), providing grants towards renewable energy projects.
The Impact of Solar Roofing on Electric Costs
If you’re like most people, your electric bill probably makes you cringe each month. You might even think about switching off your air conditioner or cutting down on heating during the winter to save some money.
But what if you could generate enough power right at home while also keeping your utility charges under control? Depending on the number of roofing tiles you have, solar shingles can reduce energy costs by anywhere from 40 to 60%.
Through integrated solar tiles, you can generate electricity for personal use, reducing your dependence on grid supply. The excess power generated then gets fed back into the grid, which is both cost effective and energy efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are solar roofs and solar shingles as effective as solar panels?
The benefits of solar roofs and solar shingles may match that of traditional panels, but their efficiency hinges on proper installation and optimal sunlight exposure.
Are solar shingles better than regular panels?
“Better” is subjective. Panels with solar shingles offer seamless integration with your roof design and may have higher aesthetic appeal, but solar shingles do often cost more than regular panels.
How do solar panels impact roof shingles?
Solar panel installations must be done correctly to avoid damaging roof shingles. If not, they could lead to leaks or other issues over time.
What are the pros and cons of integrated solar roofing?
A solar roof reduces energy costs and increases property value but requires significant upfront investment. Also, roof replacements or repairs might pose challenges due to the integrated nature of a solar roof.
Conclusion
When it comes to solar panels, the initial setup costs might seem steep. But remember, you’re playing the long game here!
Over time, you’ll start reaping the benefits of solar roofs and solar shingles, such as savings on electric bills, earnings from feeding excess power back into the grid, and also tax incentives. So be patient at first, and soon enough your investment will start to pay off.
Looking to learn more about adding solar shingles or panels to your roof? Reach out to us today.
