Roof-integrated Solar Panels

In-roof Solar Panels

Roof integrated solar panels, which are often referred to as ‘in-roof solar panels’ are a way of providing a sleek and aesthetically pleasing option for homeowners looking to install a solar panel system. Unlike a traditional roof-mounted, or ‘on-roof’ solar installation, roof integrated solar panels are designed to blend in seamlessly with the roofline. In-roof solar panels are, as the name would suggest, embedded directly into the roof structure. The actual solar panels themselves are generally speaking the same types of panels for both roof-mounted and roof-integrated solar panel systems, the actual difference is the mounting system.

As mentioned, the main difference with in-roof solar panels is the installation method. Roof-integrated solar panels are fixed flush with the roof, creating a cleaner look. Unlike traditional on-roof systems, solar panels integrated into the roof are designed to blend seamlessly into the roofline. The added benefit of in-roof solar panels is that they can act as both an energy source and a roofing material. When installed as part of a new construction or extension there is no need for roofing tiles to be fitted beneath the panels, saving on installation cost. This is the reason in-roof solar panels are often seen on new build properties. There are also options for panels to be mounted in conjunction with skylights or roof windows, such as Velux, for a cohesive design.

The trade-off for the increased aesthetics of roof integrated solar panels is that they generally operate at a higher temperature than roof-mounted systems. This comes down to ventilation – as the panels sit flush with the roof, they have less airflow. This higher temperature can impact efficiency, and can result in 5-10% less generation than an equivalent on-roof system.

Pros and Cons of In Roof Solar Panels

Pros:

• Aesthetic appeal – The sleek flush appearance of solar panels integrated into the roof is a major advantage for homeowners who want their solar installation to complement the architectural design of their home.
• Dual functionality – In roof solar panels can replace roof tiles, serving as both a weatherproof roofing material and an energy generation system. This can reduce the installation cost when installing as part of a new construction or a renovation.
• Integrated design – In-roof solar panels can be designed to fit alongside other roof features, such as skylights, allowing for a more cohesive layout.
• No need for bird-proofing – It is not uncommon with on-roof systems to have problems with birds nesting under the panels and causing maintenance issues. This is usually remedied with bird-proofing measures. However, as integrated solar panels have no space underneath them, this is not necessary.

Cons:

• Impacted Efficiency – Because in-roof solar panels lack ventilation underneath the panels themselves, they will operate at a higher temperature. This can result in a slight reduction in efficiency, with generation around 5-10% lower than on-roof systems.
• Higher installation costs when retro-fitting – The installation costs can be higher when integrated solar panels are fitted to a pre-existing roof as the process tends to be more complex than fitting on-roof panels. This is why in-roof systems are usually seen on new builds and renovations.

How are Integrated Solar Panels fitted?

How much do integrated solar panels cost?

This, as with all solar panel systems, depends on a number of factors. Here at SolarTherm UK, we understand that any type of solar panel system is an important investment, and like all investments you need to make the decision that is right for you. That’s why we build custom solutions instead of off-the-shelf packages. If you are considering an integrated solar panel system, or any other solar panel system, get in touch with us via our simple online quote form. It takes less than 2 minutes to fill in, and allows us to start designing a custom solution for you.