Solar Shingles: Top 5 Brands to Consider in

With rising energy costs and growing interest in clean power, more homeowners in Poughkeepsie, NY, are turning to solar shingles. These low-profile systems offer the benefits of solar energy without the look of bulky panels. In alone, small-scale solar setups in the U.S. generated over 73.62 billion kilowatt-hours, showing how fast home solar is catching on.

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Here are the five top solar shingle brands to look at in .

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

✔ Tesla delivers a sleek, tech-forward solar roof with built-in energy storage.

✔ GAF Energy offers easy-to-install shingles backed by roofing industry expertise.

✔ Luma Solar provides high-end solar solutions with customizable designs.

✔ CertainTeed balances cost and performance with strong product support.

✔ Suntegra features low-profile shingles with flexible wattage and solid value.

Top 5 Solar Shingle Brands in

1. Tesla’s Solar Roof

Tesla has made a major mark in the renewable energy space, and among its Energy line products, the Tesla Solar Roof has become a standout innovation. Designed to replace a traditional roof entirely, it not only provides clean energy but also redefines the aesthetics of solar technology.

What Makes Tesla’s Solar Roof a Great Choice

The Tesla Solar Roof blends solar power with stylish roofing, setting a new standard for how renewable energy can look and perform. It represents a forward-thinking solution for homeowners who want both function and visual appeal in their investment.

• • All-in-One Design: The Tesla Solar Roof functions as both a roofing material and a solar panel system. Homeowners don’t need separate installations, making it efficient in terms of time and design.
  • Easy Energy Ecosystem Integration: When paired with the Tesla Powerwall, the system provides energy storage and backup during outages. It’s ideal for homeowners planning to power their entire home with solar energy.
  • Maximized Energy Output: Each solar shingle delivers 72 watts of power, a competitive rating that helps maximize output across the roof’s surface.

• • High Durability: Tesla’s solar shingles are built to withstand extreme weather conditions. They are made of tempered glass and come with a 25-year product and performance warranty.
  • Premium Materials and Finish: The system uses top-tier roofing materials, contributing to its high cost but also its longevity and efficiency.
  • Smart Energy Monitoring: The Tesla mobile app allows users to track energy production, usage, and battery storage in real-time, giving full control and insight into their solar system.

Key Considerations 

Tesla’s Solar Roof is best suited for homeowners who want to make a full transition to clean energy while maintaining a high-end design aesthetic.

• • Best for Full Roof Replacement: This product is perfect for new builds or major roof renovations, as it replaces the entire roof with solar-integrated shingles.
  • Designed for Tesla Ecosystem Users: Those already using or planning to use a Tesla EV and Tesla Powerwall will benefit the most, as all systems can be interconnected for seamless energy use and storage.
  • Higher Cost, Higher Value: Though pricing can exceed $99,000 for an average home, the investment includes roof replacement, solar installation, and long-term savings on energy bills.

2. GAF Energy Solar Shingles

GAF, one of the largest roofing manufacturers in North America, has taken a major step into solar with its GAF Energy Solar Shingles. This innovation offers a way to turn roofing systems into active power-generating assets without sacrificing appearance or performance.

What Makes GAF Energy Solar Shingles a Great Choice

The GAF Timberline Solar® system combines a protective roof with energy-producing shingles in one seamless product. Homeowners can trust the same brand that has protected millions of homes to now deliver energy solutions with their new GAF solar roof.

• • Certified and Safe: Each GAF solar roof has been rigorously tested to meet UL safety and quality standards. These third-party certifications ensure long-term peace of mind for performance and durability.

• • Integrated Asphalt Shingles: Each GAF solar shingle includes an asphalt top portion that allows it to be nailed down like traditional shingles. This reduces the complexity found in traditional solar setups and makes GAF solar roof installation quick and clean.
  • Water-Shedding and Wind Resistant: GAF energy solar shingles are not just solar—they’re built to perform like premium roofing products. They’re water-resistant and designed to withstand winds up to 130 mph, reducing weather-related risks.

• • Cost-Efficient Dual Upgrade: Instead of paying for separate roofing and solar projects, homeowners can install GAF solar shingles in one coordinated job. This reduces downtime and delivers long-term energy savings.
  • Great for New Roofs: GAF Timberline Solar® is a smart choice for those already in the market for a roof replacement, eliminating the need for rack-mounted panels later. It’s a modern upgrade that protects and powers the home.
  • Wide Accessibility: With GAF’s large contractor network, GAF solar roof installation is available across many regions. This makes it easier for homeowners to access trusted local installers and GAF-backed warranties.

Performance and Reputation 

Each GAF solar shingle produces 45 watts of power, offering reliable energy production during peak sunlight hours. Homeowners can rely on this consistent output to reduce electric bills and support greener living.

• • Comprehensive Warranty: The GAF energy solar shingles come with a 25-year performance and manufacturing warranty, plus a 10-year workmanship warranty. This extensive coverage shows the brand’s long-term commitment to product quality.
  • Power Throughout the Day: The GAF Timberline Solar® shingles are designed to collect sunlight throughout the day and feed it directly into the home’s electrical system. This allows homeowners to reduce reliance on traditional utility power.
  • GAF Solar Shingles Reliability: While a recall raised concerns, GAF Energy responded swiftly and transparently, reinforcing their commitment to customer safety. Since then, GAF solar shingles have remained a reliable, well-supported choice.

• • One-Company Convenience: With GAF Timberline Solar®, both roofing and solar power can be installed by the same team, cutting down on coordination and installation time. This unified approach simplifies maintenance and warranty coverage.

• • Established Reputation: GAF has built over a century of trust in the roofing market and now extends that expertise into clean energy. Their move into solar via GAF energy solar shingles is backed by a strong foundation in construction-grade durability. 

Design and Aesthetic Appeal

A GAF solar roof offers energy savings without compromising visual appeal, as the solar shingles blend into the roofline like traditional shingles. This is a big advantage over raised panel systems, especially for design-conscious homeowners.

• • Architectural Look: With a texture and color that matches traditional asphalt shingles, GAF Timberline Solar® adds curb appeal while delivering functionality. The system elevates home value with sleek, modern design.
  • Visual Harmony: Because GAF solar shingles are low-profile, they maintain a clean and cohesive look on the roof. They offer an excellent solution for homeowners who want solar benefits without bulky installations.
  • Investment-Worthy Appearance: Investing in GAF energy solar shingles not only supports sustainability but also boosts aesthetic and property value. The system’s clean integration makes it a premium choice for stylish, eco-minded households.

3. Luma Solar

Luma Solar is known for creating the first fully integrated solar roof system in the United States. Their product is considered a luxury option in the solar shingle market, offering a sleek design, strong performance, and upgrade flexibility for future technology.

Tailored for High-End Residential Projects

Luma Solar’s system is built with modern aesthetics and long-term value in mind. It’s ideal for upscale homes that want to integrate renewable energy in a visually appealing way.

• • Luxury Positioning: Luma refers to its solar shingles as a high-end product for homeowners seeking a balance of elegance and energy efficiency.
  • Full-Roof System: The Luma Solar system requires a complete roof installation, using both active solar shingles and non-solar tiles for a uniform look.
  • High Cost, High Value: A full Luma Solar roof system installation typically ranges from $70,000 to over $100,000 depending on size and complexity. The cost reflects premium materials, high-performance solar technology, and aesthetic refinement.

Modular Design for Easy Maintenance

One of Luma’s standout features is its modular setup, which allows for easier replacement and future upgrades.

• • Upgradable Technology: The modular solar shingles allow homeowners to upgrade to newer solar technology without a full re-roofing. This makes Luma Solar a future-proof investment for long-term energy savings.
  • Panel-Level Maintenance: If a single shingle becomes damaged or underperforms, it can be removed and replaced without affecting the rest of the solar roof system.
  • Simplified Repairs: The modular design simplifies maintenance by isolating issues to individual tiles. This approach minimizes disruption and ensures the solar roof system stays operational longer.

Built to Withstand Harsh Conditions

Luma shingles are not just about looks—they’re engineered for durability and safety, especially in areas with extreme weather.

• • Power Rating: Each Luma Solar tile delivers 80 watts of power, helping to efficiently offset residential energy needs even with limited roof space. This output supports energy independence while maintaining the home’s architectural style.
  • Wind Resistance: Luma shingles are rated to withstand winds over 200 miles per hour, making them suitable for homes in hurricane zones and storm-prone areas. Their strength adds an extra layer of safety for vulnerable locations.
  • Warranties: The system includes a 25-year production warranty to guarantee consistent solar output, along with a 5-year limited product warranty for physical durability. These warranties offer long-term assurance for performance and product integrity.

4. CertainTeed Solar Shingles

CertainTeed solar shingles are a practical solution for homeowners replacing their roofs and seeking an integrated solar option. Their clean look, strong brand reputation, and functional design appeal to a wide range of residential buyers. These shingles are best for homeowners who want a solar roof that doesn’t stand out but still performs well. 

Key Features

CertainTeed’s solar shingles provide consistent performance while remaining more affordable than some premium alternatives. This makes them a great choice for homeowners who want reliable solar roofing without the premium price tag.

• • High Power Output Per Shingle: Each Solstice solar shingle delivers 70 watts of power, which is ideal for homes looking to reduce electricity costs. The consistent energy production helps support overall household energy needs in various climates.
  • Efficiency Rating: With a 19.85% efficiency rate, these solar shingles convert a good amount of sunlight into usable energy. This efficiency level is competitive within the residential solar roofing market.
  • Competitive Pricing Range: Although pricing can vary, the estimated cost of $210 to $420 per shingle places CertainTeed in the mid-range for solar roofing systems. This range reflects the product’s balance of quality and affordability.

• • Great Visual Appeal: The low-profile design of the shingles blends with standard roofing materials, giving the home a polished, uniform appearance. This makes the system attractive for HOA communities and style-conscious buyers.
  • Widespread Availability: CertainTeed solar roofing systems are available through many licensed roofing and solar contractors nationwide. This broad distribution makes installation and service more accessible for most homeowners.

Designed for Full Roof Replacement

CertainTeed solar shingles are not intended for layering over existing shingles and must be installed during a full roof replacement or new build. This ensures optimal performance and a clean, integrated solar system that meets building code standards.

• • Installation Type: The shingles are designed for complete roof replacement, not retrofitting, which makes them ideal for new construction or major roof renovations. This approach provides better structural integration and long-term durability.
  • Building-Integrated Design: As a BIPV product, the shingles function both as roofing material and solar panels. This dual-purpose design enhances curb appeal while delivering clean energy.

Warranty Support and Reputation 

CertainTeed backs its solar shingles with long-term warranties and professional-grade customer service. Their wide network of certified contractors ensures proper installation and dependable aftercare.

• • Power and Performance Warranty: Homeowners receive a 25-year warranty that covers power output and product durability, offering peace of mind for long-term investment. This warranty is on par with industry leaders in the solar roofing market.
  • Wind Resistance Warranty: The product includes a 10-year limited wind warranty rated up to 110 MPH, adding protection against weather-related damage. This makes CertainTeed solar shingles a strong option for regions with frequent storms.
  • Company Reputation: CertainTeed has decades of experience in residential roofing, lending credibility to its solar line. This background gives buyers confidence in product quality and service reliability.

5. Suntegra Solar Shingles

Suntegra is a well-known solar brand offering sleek, integrated solar shingles and tiles designed for residential roofs. Their products are built to blend in with standard roofing materials while generating clean energy for the home.

Low-Profile Design and Features

Suntegra’s shingles are built for a subtle appearance. Homeowners who want solar power without bulky panels will appreciate the way these shingles integrate into existing rooflines.

• • Sleek, Modern Look: The shingles sit nearly flush with standard roofing materials, providing a clean and uniform look.
  • Roof-Like Aesthetics: They resemble traditional roofing more closely than raised solar panels.
  • No Visible Racking: Installation does not require racks or external mounts, which enhances curb appeal.

Flexible Compatibility With Existing Roofs

Suntegra designs its shingles to work with common roof types, making it easier for homeowners to upgrade without replacing the entire roof.

• • Roof Material Options: Offers both solar shingles and solar tiles, so homeowners can choose the product that best matches their roof.
  • Retrofit-Friendly: Products are suitable for both new builds and existing homes.
  • Integrated Installation: Designed to combine roofing and solar in one product, reducing the need for separate systems.

Energy Options for Different Needs

Homeowners can choose from several output options, depending on how much solar power they want to produce.

• • Multiple Wattage Options: Available in 105W, 110W, and 114W models to support a range of energy needs.
  • Customizable Systems: The variety of outputs allows homeowners to build a system that fits their energy use and roof size.
  • Energy Efficiency: Made with monocrystalline solar cells, which are known for good performance and efficiency.

Cost-Effective for Subtle Energy Upgrades

Suntegra provides solar energy solutions that are budget-conscious while maintaining quality.

• • Affordable Pricing: Systems cost between $4.00 and $6.00 per watt, depending on wattage and system size.
  • Value for Money: Offers reliable energy performance without the high-profile look or premium price of some competitors.
  • Long-Term Savings: Helps reduce electricity bills over time, making it a smart financial investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do GAF solar shingles qualify for tax credits?

Yes, GAF solar shingles can qualify for tax credits, but only if they include Energy Star-certified components. To find out which products meet these criteria and if they’re a good fit for your home, contact RGB Construction for more information.

What is the lifespan of GAF shingles?

GAF shingles typically last between 25 and 30 years. If you’re considering a roof replacement, choosing GAF shingles is a smart investment due to their long-lasting durability, especially for homeowners in the local area.

How do you get a GAF lifetime warranty?

To receive a GAF Lifetime Warranty, install any GAF Lifetime Shingles along with at least three eligible GAF accessories. This automatically grants you a limited lifetime warranty on both the shingles and accessories—plus, you’ll receive full (non-prorated) coverage for the first 10 years!

Is a drip edge required for GAF shingles?

While not mandatory, GAF highly recommends installing drip edges along the rakes and eaves for optimal roofing performance. Shingles should extend at least 3/8 inch (9 mm) past the drip edge at both the eaves and rakes.

Can you install GAF shingles in cold weather?

Yes, GAF asphalt fiberglass shingles can be installed in a wide range of temperatures. For smoother installation, it’s best to work when temperatures are above 40°F in cold weather and below 90°F in hot weather, using the proper precautions for each condition.

Book Professional GAF Solar Installation Today!

For the best home energy upgrade, GAF solar roof installation in Poughkeepsie, NY, is a smart step. With trusted local provider Lyndsey Roofing, LLC, homeowners can expect expert craftsmanship, reliable installation, and personalized service. As a certified GAF installer, Lyndsey Roofing, LLC ensures each system is tailored to meet both energy goals and aesthetic preferences.

Schedule a consultation now to get started with your project!

In the U.S., residential solar installations have been continuously increasing during the last few years, reaching 1GWDC in the Q4 of .

This solar energy adoption is driven by many factors, such as the cutting-edge technologies that are being developed, like instance solar shingles.

Out there in the market, there are many solar shingle manufacturers. To help you decide which brand and product is best for your needs, we chose 4 different solar shingle companies as an alternative to Tesla solar shingles. For each brand, we will check out the products they offer, breaking down their characteristics and more importantly let you know if a solar shingle might be a good match for you.

Disclosure: We may get commissions for purchases made from our affiliates through links in this article. (Learn More)

At are solar shingles and how do they work?

Solar shingles are basically solar cells that convert the sun’s radiation into usable electricity, but also, they work as the roofing material for your home. These roofing solar cells are commonly shaped into shingles or tiles which are seamlessly arranged to provide structural support for the house roof and other types of buildings.

Using solar shingles allows you to have a roof that achieves two functions: generate clean energy and give your home, office or any other of your buildings, an aesthetic look.

Composition/Structure

Solar shingles or tiles are made of solar cells that are commonly manufactured using semiconductor materials, such as monocrystalline silicon and copper-indium-gallium selenide. The cells are assembled in bands or strips to form the shingle or tile shape.

In addition, since solar shingles are quite thin, this allows them to have greater flexibility and be lightweight.

How do solar shingles work?

Solar shingles or tiles perform as roofing material for your home. The main idea is to combine the solar cells with the roof sheathing rather than mounting solar modules on top of the shingles.

Solar shingle's basic principle works just the same as with conventional solar panels. In other words, the PV cells absorb sunlight in order to produce a flow of free electrons, which results in generating an electrical current that can power electrical equipment. The difference between solar shingles and solar panels is mainly their construction.

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Why should you choose solar shingle technology?

In order to help you analyze whether choosing solar shingles for your photovoltaic system is the right option, we summarize and list the pros and cons of having them:

Pros

• Perfect solution for those cases in which a roof replacement is required.
• Elegant and sleek design provides a futuristic look to your roof.
• No obstructions from solar panels will be visible on the roof.
• No external wiring that could be exposed to damage and cause potential hazards.
• No weak spots on the roof from roof penetrations as with conventional solar systems.

Cons

• Higher upfront costs and lower return of investment (ROI) than conventional rooftop solar panels (unless roof is to be replaced).
• Solar shingles generally have less energy efficiency than standard solar modules.
• Few companies perform solar shingle installation.

What is the average cost of solar shingle technologies?

The amount of money you are going to pay for installing solar shingles in your roof is going to depend on your energy usage, the conditions, and age of your roof, the solar shingle manufacturer, and other factors.

However, the cost of going with solar shingles can go anywhere from $20,000 to $70,000 whereas Tesla’s solar roof is generally located in the high-end scenario.

Reviews of the best solar shingle brands

Tesla’s Solar Roof

Elon Musk presented the Solar Roof back in . Since then, the product has gained huge popularity across the U.S. and other countries.

It’s clear that the Solar Roof provides a futuristic and sleek look for homes and other types of buildings. Although, the Solar Roof is quite an expensive product and still not as efficient as conventional solar panels.

Tesla’s Solar Roof consists of a rooftop built with solar shingles that contain solar cells. There are two types of shingles used in the final product design: the active ones, those which produce electricity, and the inactive ones, which just act as a roofing material. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of using the Solar Roof.

Advantages

• Aesthetics: Solar Roof offers 4 different styles of tile. All have a modern and distinguished looking design.
• Durability: It is claimed to be resistant to hail, wind, and fire, as well as to mechanical forces. Solar Roof is backed by ANSI standard tests.
• Warranty: Offers a 25-year tile and power and weatherization warranty.
• Renowned brand: Who is not excited to have a product of a brand like Tesla? Claimed to be one of the leaders of a zero-carbon emissions future.

Disadvantages

• High upfront Cost: Compared to building a new roof or replacing an existing one plus adding a regular solar system mounted on the rooftop, it can be 2 to 3 times more expensive to buy the solar roof of Tesla. Depending on the complexity of your roof, you could end up paying a total of somewhere between $40,000 to $70,000 to install the solar shingles. 
• Low ROI: Depending on many factors like your energy usage habits, the size of the system, your location, and others, the solar roof may have a very low payback in a 25-year lifetime compared to conventional solar systems. In some cases, it could simply be not economically viable.

Considering the previous facts, it would be interesting to look for possible alternatives to buy and install solar shingles. Let’s check out some of them.

CertainTeed Solar Shingles

Another important brand that has been leading the roofing technology in the US for a long time is CertainTeed. It offers two different product alternatives related to solar shingles.

Design Choices

• Apollo Shingle ll: This design has solar shingles that can be installed in a new or existing asphalt shingle roof. The result is a combination of regular asphalt shingles and active solar shingles.
• Apollo Tile ll: This product offers a more integrated design by using tiles that are embedded to a new or an existing concrete tile roof.

Performance

In both Apollo Shingle II and Apollo Tile ll systems, 14 high-efficiency monocrystalline silicon solar cells are used in every tile/shingle with a power rating of 70 watts per piece. The conversion efficiency of the shingles and the tiles are 17.2% and 17.8% respectively. In addition, both have an operating temperature that can go anywhere between -40˚C and 90˚C.

Both systems are relatively easy to install, they are placed directly into the roof sheathing using standard deck screws, just as conventional asphalt and concrete tiles are installed.

Their weight is much less than conventional tiles at three pounds per square foot. Moreover, they are long-lasting withstanding up to 250 pounds per square foot. Also, they are waterproof and can resist high wind velocities of 140mph.

Aesthetics

Apollo II provides all-black solar shingles which look like suitable solar stripes or bands placed over the roof.

On the other hand, Apollo Tile II matches the profile of flat concrete tiles. These tiles look like black solar laminate with a custom-colored frame that can complement a wide variety of earth-toned concrete tile colors.

Cost

The cost might change depending on your energy requirements, the difficulty of installation, your roof inclination, and roof age. However, some estimations are shown in the following table.

ProductCost per wattCertainTeed Apollo ll$6.40-$8.00CertainTeed Apollo Tile ll$7.64-$10.00

These figures are estimated and subject to changes depending on the specifics of the project, which can elevate the costs by 25%.

Warranty

CertainTeed offers a 25-year limited power warranty claimed to be all-encompassing. The coverage includes 25 years on installation workmanship, PV cells, microinverters, and mounting system. Also, comprises 12 years on optimized inverters, 10 years on wind, and 5 years on data monitoring hardware.

Suntegra Solar Shingles

Another important player in the solar roofing industry is Suntegra, which claims to give a 2-in-1 roof and solar solution by providing solar cells that generate electricity and a roofing material that protects your home or building.  It gives installers a cutting-edge way to integrate solar directly into the sloped roof of a house, commercial building, or carport.

Additionally, Suntegra products are regarded to be constructed with 50% fewer materials than conventional rack-mounted PV systems and thus, they might be an alternative to adjust efficiently to your budget.

Available Options

• Suntegra shingles: Like the Apollo ll system, Suntegra also includes a solar shingles that are placed on a new or existing roof composed by asphalt shingles.
• Suntegra tiles: Similar to the Apollo tile design, this system integrates to the existing concrete tiles that are inserted in combination with inactive concrete tiles. They can also be used when a new roof is to be built.

Performance

The solar shingles of Suntegra offer 3 different models with a range of power output between 105W and 114W. All of them use 24 monocrystalline cells per piece, capable of achieving an electrical efficiency from 15.9% to 17.2%.

On the other hand, Suntegra tiles have lower efficiency than the shingles, ranging from 13.9% to 15.1%. Also, the tiles have 16 monocrystalline cells per piece.

Both tiles and shingles have a maximum wind rating of 130mph and a maximum static load rating of 112 pounds per square foot or 5,400Pa. In addition, the temperature operating range is the same as the Certainteed product (between -40˚C and 90˚C).

Aesthetics

Both Suntegra shingles and tiles offer a low-profile, all-black, and pleasing-looking. They are characterized for being a discrete installation, almost hidden and barely noticeable from the ground level, which makes them an elegant design for any home or building.

Price

Just as we did with the CertainTeed shingles and tiles, estimations on the cost are shown in the table below, which are subjected to variations depending on the conditions of your roof, energy requirements, and location.

ProductCost per wattSunTegra Shingle$3.80-$4.26SunTegra Tile$6.16-$6.57

Warranty

For both shingles and tiles, Suntegra offers a 10-year product warranty and a 25-year power output warranty.

Forward Solar Shingles

In the few recent years, Forward startup company has had significant growth in the solar shingles market. Forward offers an engineered integration of the roof and the solar cells by the means of state-of-the-art technology and a unique aesthetic that matches the classical U.S. home.

They offer their star product called Forward Metal Solar Roof, claimed to be a cost-effective and efficient solution that harvests a great amount of clean energy while it gives a sleek and futuristic appearance using shining metal standing seam type of roof. The system comes in 8 different possible colors to cover all requirements.

It has a non-solar portions cost of $9.75 per square foot and a $3.75 per watt cost related to the solar parts, which are quite competitive compared to the previous brands mentioned. Also, it has a weatherization warranty of 30 years.

The product is claimed to achieve an energy density of 19 watts per square foot while having an excellent thermal performance by the means of a passive ventilation system, which optimizes the heat dissipation and the airflow between shingles and your roof deck.  

Additionally, this design is claimed to be reliable, robust, long-lasting, and can withstand powerful mechanical forces. The most interesting fact about Forward is that they are probably the only valuable brand available that offers a solar-roof integrated solution based on metal standing seam roof type, making it perfect not only for homes but also for garages, barns, and other industrial types of roofs.

Luma Solar Shingles

Luma Solar is another important interesting solar shingle company that has been gaining momentum for many years in the US. It’s recognized by having solar shingles products with a high rate of electrical efficiency while also having a futuristic, seamless, and luxurious looking. Luma offers results in your house that have combinations between active and inactive solar shingles.

The price changes depending on the conditions, roof complexity, energy requirements, and others. However, estimations set the average cost of the solar shingles of Luma at $4.5 per watt and could go up to $38 per square foot.

Additionally, it offers a 25-year limited power warranty at 80% and a 5-year limited product warranty.

Performance

Luma Solar Roof claims to have solar shingles with an incredible conversion efficiency of 22,1%, which is even higher than standard solar panels. It uses 16 monocrystalline 80W cells per shingle.

It handles a temperature operation range between -40˚C to 85˚C, having a great thermal and airflow management that maintains excellent levels of energy yields.

Additionally, every shingle weighs 19.8 lbs., and they are designed to withstand mechanical forces of 2,400 Pa for static wind loading and 5,400 for static load snow loading.

Aesthetics

Luma offers a distinguished good looking for your house, not only because of its futuristic appearance but also because of the Matte black finish, which gives a sleek line.

Are these “solar shingle technologies” right for you?

All the products mentioned above will provide an extraordinary aesthetic view for your home. Not to mention that some of them will offer the functionality of performing as the roofing material and act as the structural support by the means of Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV).

Replacing roof or just adding solar?

If you are only looking for a solar PV system, installing solar shingles in the roof of your home can be an interesting alternative to go with if your requirements are more focused on aesthetical objectives than on cost-effective and efficient goals. From an economical point of view, it is still hard for solar shingles to compete with conventional solar panel systems.

However, in cases where changing your roof is necessary, solar shingles may present themselves as a more economically viable choice that combines both approaches into one for a cost similar to a solar panel system plus roof installation. In some other cases, replacing your roof may not be what you need, but the structural engineer may require you to replace the roof to make the solar panel installation feasible. If you find yourself in a situation like that, you may want to reconsider going with a solar shingle installation.

New Home?

Another situation where solar roof shingles can definitely be a great choice is for new houses. Choosing solar shingles since the construction process can drastically reduce the cost impact, increase your ROI, and ease the installation process.

Compare Quotes!

In any case, if you are interested in solar shingles, it is advisable for you to get a quote for your roof-specific layout and compare it with other conventional solar panel systems plus roofing installation quotes. This will allow you to find out which approach would best suit your needs. However, keep in mind that in the end, the house will always look better with solar shingles, which is a plus to consider for the value of your property.

Shingled solar panels: A must-consider solar shingle alternative

Finally, shingled solar panels are an innovative technology which is carrying out a wide range of advanced features in terms of solar energy optimization.

They should not be confused with solar shingles, which are part of BIPV, whereas solar shingled panels are more similar to standard solar panels but with cells that are cut into several strips that are subsequently connected to form modules by the means of an electrically conductive adhesive (ECA).

Major developments on this technology have taken place in the residential sector so far. Solar shingled panels are a promising technology that is much less expensive and more efficient technology than solar shingles.

Final Thoughts

We have examined multiple solar shingle products and brands with the objective to show you some of the best brands available in the market today. We learned that a solar roof shingle investment is a solution that must balance aesthetics and functionality where the new shingles of your roof will actually be generating electricity.  

However, we also learned that the decision to install it must be balanced with the costs for such type of project since they can be considerable depending on the house. New houses or cases where a roof replacement is required due to structural stability reasons, are probably the best ones for solar shingle installations. In these cases, the economics can definitely be balanced with the benefits of a high-end finish.

Solar shingles still have a long way to go and with the variety of products available for multiple roof types that go from shingles, concrete standard tiles, and even metal standing seam, there are plenty of choices that you can consider to start generating clean energy and potentially improve the look for your house.

*Last updated: February 15,