Solar shingles are a relatively new innovation in the field of alternative renewable energy technologies. They introduce a new angle to the increasingly common and conventional solar panel.   The trend is catching on as it provides all benefits that come with solar energy harnessing with a solar panel without sacrificing the aesthetic look of a home or residence. This makes solar shingles a popular attraction for residential homeowners and may facilitate the transition of solar energy generation from few and far between to common place in suburbs throughout the world.

Also known as photovoltaic shingles, solar shingles only appeared on the scene as recently as 2005 and is a specialized product manufactured by only 3 companies to date, which are (AES) Atlantis Energy Systems, Solar Components Corporation and SunPower Corporation.

The reason why their popularity is catching on is because they are created to mimic regular asphalt roof shingles and blend seamlessly into existing roofing.  Most people wouldn’t think at first glance that they were actual miniature photovoltaic cells each harvesting and storing the energy from the sun.

Solar shingles act like mini solar panels, each capturing sunlight, converting it into usable energy.  When sunlight strikes a semiconductor layer on the shingle which is composed of a crystalline form of silicon, it generates electricity.  They are around 12 inches wide and of themselves only generate around 100 to 150 watts of energy, however when packed side by side covering a roof can provide adequate surface area to capture enough sunlight to power an entire household.

Having solar shingles doesn’t necessarily mean going completely solo as most solar powered systems work in conjunction with existing power supplies for the days that produce little sunlight and after dark.  The benefits are clear about going down the solar energy route especially in times when you produce an excess of energy, around 39 states support the solar energy initiative allowing residential homeowners to sell unused power back to the utility companies for a credit.  Instead of accruing charges for using power from the power companies, your meter actually operates in reverse, adding up to some decent savings.

Because they are more expensive to install than regular solar panels, these are more of a crowd pleaser because of their ability to blend into a home’s existing look, and although they may be a little pricey upfront, with the energy savings over time you will eventually recoup your initial investment.

Here are some of the benefits of going the solar shingle route:

1. Reduction of carbon emissions through fossil fuel independence

2. Sustainable energy that will never run out

3. Kinder to the environment and to the carbon footprint of everyone using this type of energy

4.Energy bill savings allowing you to recoup your initial outlay

5. Aesthetically pleasing, allowing regular people to make the jump to green without altering the continuity of their homes look

6. Tax breaks from state rebates

7. Increased home value making solar shingles a sound investment

8. Can withstand up to 80 mph winds

9. Long lasting for up to 20 years and comes with a standard 5 year warranty backed by the manufacturer

So convinced this is a viable option for the future of sustainable energy that manufacturers are currently in negotiations with construction companies in the state of California to further explore this avenue.  Their vision is to incorporate this technology into brand new homes, starting at the construction process.

Not only will new homeowners be able to take advantage of the energy from solar shingles but it will be readily available and pre-installed.  This avoids new homeowners from having to go to additional expense to install them at a later date should they opt for this choice.  The cost is already absorbed into the price of the new home without the new home buyer ever feeling the financial impact of having such technology.

Solar shingles will also be used in office blocks and buildings so that they can provide some power to the building and thus reduce energy costs and put less of a burden on traditional energy resources.

The extra perk is the reducing dependence upon fossil fuels for your energy needs, reduced emissions associated with solar energy generation and savings on your energy bills.  It’s a solution that has so many positives to it.

So if you have been put off solar power because you don’t like bulky solar panels atop of your house then solar shingles might be an option for you. However they will be more expensive than normal panels so this has to be factored in if solar shingles appeal to you.