The Aesthetic Appeal of Integrated Panels
As solar technology advances, homeowners are looking for energy solutions that are not only efficient but aesthetically pleasing as well. The innovative design of integrated panels (also known as in-roof panels) means your panels are more streamlined and less obtrusive than traditional on-roof solar panels.
At SolarTherm UK, we are seeing more and more customers opt for integrated solar panels as part of a renovation project (the most economical time to install an integrated solar system is as part of a new roof or at construction phase). This article will explore what integrated solar panels are, how they are different from on-roof panels and whether they are right for you.
What are Integrated Solar Panels?
Integrated solar panels are solar PV panels that are built directly into your roof structure without the need to be mounted onto your tiles. They work like your roof would so are watertight. In most cases the underlying roof structure doesn’t need to be altered, just the tiles removed and replaced with the integrated solar system.
How Do They Work?
Integrated solar panels work in the same way as roof-top solar – actually in most cases the same solar PV panels are used – it’s just the mounting system that is different. The solar PV panels convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity, which is fed into a solar inverter and converted into alternating current (AC) electricity for use within your home or export back to the grid.
What Are the Benefits of Integrated Solar Panels?
- Improved aesthetics – one of the biggest appeals of integrated solar panels is the look, being flush with your roof means they are less obtrusive and visible from the street.
- Dual-purpose design – as they replace traditional roof tiles, integrated solar panels act as a roof covering and energy generator. They are particularly popular when having your roof replaced and on new builds.
- Lower wind risk – as they sit flush to your roof, integrated systems aren’t exposed to wind uplifts and are therefore more stable during storms.
- Built-in bird proofing – as integrated solar panels replace your roof, there is no chance for birds or small animals to gain access underneath them and build nests or cause damage to the wiring, reducing the amount of maintenance that may be required.
- Planning permission – due to the lightweight and streamlined nature of integrated solar panels, they are the perfect solution if you live in a conservation area or own a listed property. Planning permission is harder to get when altering the aesthetic of the property or area so solar panels that are more streamlined reduces the risk of your planning permission being denied.
Are There Any Drawbacks to Integrated Solar Panels?
- More complex to install – as they need to be installed in replacement of your roof tiles, integrated solar panels can be more time consuming and therefore more expensive to install. They are best suited to new roofs or renovation projects where the roof is being replaced.
- More expensive – due to the labour intensive installation process, integrated solar panels tend to be more expensive than on-roof installations.
- Lower efficiency – while integrated solar panels are more aesthetically pleasing, they can be less efficient than traditional roof mounted solar panels. Where integrated solar panels sit snugly within a tray, they offer less cooling air ventilation to the panels.
Sustainable Roofing for the Future
Integrated solar panels are more than a trend—they represent the next evolution of smart home design. With a focus on efficiency, aesthetics, and sustainability, they’re ideal for homeowners who want the benefits of solar without compromising on style.
Ready to Future-Proof Your Roof?
At SolarTherm UK we specialise in all forms of solar installation both integrated and on-roof, no matter the shape, size or style of your property. If you are planning a new build or upgrading your current property, we’ll help you every step of the way with your solar PV dreams – from design and installation to battery pairing and aftercare – at SolarTherm UK we focus on our customers and what is right for you and your property.
Contact SolarTherm UK today for a free bespoke design package – no hard-sell just honest, expert advice.
