

The final aesthetics is the main advantage of these systems. *PV Module ENCOR EC370M-6-120FB 370 Wp Glass roofs offered by Emergo, Solrif, or Sunroof look very similar and differ from each other only in terms of assembly details. This is probably why the trend set by Stafier and Braas seems to have also gained the recognition of Tesla, which recently published specifications for new solar tiles - this time wider, replacing a few smaller ones. The probability of an inaccurately made MC4 connection in the case of a roof with 486 joints (tiles) instead of possibly 27 with in-roof systems is obviously higher and the service that might be needed is very difficult. This generated a lot of work, additional costs, and a completely unnecessary risk of error. The first variants of solar tiles required that each of them was individually connected to the electrical installation. What is worth mentioning here is the number of electrical connections on the roof. The solar tile of this brand replaces at least 6 traditional tiles - it is a significant convenience for roofers. Buildings with a traditional appearance or monuments can probably be found where they are preferred, but rationality tells me that the use of other forms of PV will be much more profitable for our environment and the investor.ĭuring my career at FAKRO, a direct competitor of Velux roof windows, I was privileged to work with the company in the process of preparing the integration of the roof window with the Stafier system. However, it is doubtful that they will be popularized with actual power of 6Wp and the price of 7€ per Wp. Solutions such as the one proposed by Dyaqua provide sensational aesthetics, because they are completely indistinguishable from similar traditional tiles. In this category, one of the most valuable alternatives in my opinion are the Match Tile and Slate modules. This is probably mostly the effect of Tesla’s brand name, but all solar tiles have a very attractive appearance. Certainly, the most known and interesting category is the category of PV tiles. Most of them are very similar and their solutions are quite expensive. The most numerous groups are brands that offer dedicated PV module roof integration systems and solar roof tiles. No question, on-roof systems have their advantages in the case of existing roofs, but they are no longer as economically viable on newly constructed or renovated roofs.Įach segment has outstanding leaders.
#Tesla slate solar roof tiles install
Consider the labor savings for a roofer who, in the case of a traditional on-roof installation, first would have to transport and install 486 tiles with a total weight of 2062 kg (30× more!) and then install aluminum PV mounting rails above them. For example, a GSE In-Roof mounting system for installations with a capacity of 10kWp requires only 27 mounting trays weighing 2.5 kg each. And that generates some serious savings on material and transport. The PV system installed in this way does not visually override the roof cover but replaces it where installed. Regardless of the manufacturer, all integrated systems have one thing in common - they are mounted instead of the roofing material.

Below is my overview of the mounting systems available on the European market, grouped depending on the type of PV modules they use. There is more variety on the market today, though. Until recently, integrated systems were perceived as a more expensive option in the premium category. There are already over a dozen different PV solutions for pitched roofs on the market. Recently, they were also joined by Wienerberger, who announced a financial commitment to Exasun.

Both Braas and Creaton have already invested in the PV integrated systems. In addition to new solutions such as Sunroof, there is also some clear engagement of big players in the roofing industry. On the photovoltaic market, there is now a clear increase in sales of mounting systems with an emphasis on aesthetics and integration with the roof. Integrated or sticked, aka in-roof vs on-roof The panels are arranged vertically and horizontally, clearly standing out from the roofing, visually resembling the block effect from a well-known computer game. The reality is that some photovoltaic sellers squeeze in as much kW as they can and installers assemble those Tetris-like systems. Additionally, on-roof PV systems are quite often a visual torture. First of all, we need to understand that solar roof tiles are completely unnecessary with PV panels above them. However, for new or refurbished pitched roofs, this is not cost-effective. On-roof mounting systems still have the largest share in the residential solar photovoltaic market.
