Usually, people picture solar panels as massive, rectangular boxes that absorb sunlight on the roof. But what if there was a more straightforward method to capture solar energy without the unsightly panels? Enter: solar tiles!
Solar tiles look just like regular roofing tiles, but they have tiny photovoltaic cells embedded in them that convert sunlight into electricity. So how do they work?
RKG Roofing and Construction, your trustworthy roofing contractor, will explain what solar tiles are, how they function, and how they may benefit your home or company. We want to make your lives easier and help you save money, so read on to learn more about solar tiles!
Solar Tiles – What and How!
A thin film of photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into electricity makes up solar tiles. When the sun shines on a solar tile, the cell absorbs energy and generates an electric current.
The photovoltaic cells in solar tiles are arranged in a series of long, thin strips. As sunlight shines on the cell, it creates an electric field across the strip. The electric field in this arrangement causes electrons to flow from one end of the strip to the other, generating an electrical current.
This current is then collected by wires running along the edges of the tile and directed into an inverter. The inverter converts direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC), which your home or business uses every day. You can use AC power to power your lights, appliances, and even your electric car.
The amount of electricity generated by solar tiles depends on how much sunlight they receive. On a bright day, a typical roof covered in solar tiles could create enough energy to power nearly all of your devices.
Solar panels, on average, last 25 years or more, although their life may be longer depending on how much sunshine they receive and the material used. So if you’re looking for a long-term way to reduce your energy costs, installing solar tiles is a great option. Solar tiles have been around for decades, but it’s only recently that they’ve become affordable for homeowners.
What Are Solar Tiles Made Of?
Solar tiles are usually made of silicon, a widespread and abundant element on Earth. Silicon is used to make computer chips, so solar tiles are a great way to recycle old technology products. Some solar tiles also have a thin film of silicon PV cells to increase the amount of sunlight converted into electricity.
Benefits of Using Solar Tiles
Reduce your carbon footprint: Solar tiles are a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. Because they generate electricity from the sun, they don’t produce any emissions. Unlike most forms of energy generation, which release harmful gases into the atmosphere, solar energy is a clean and renewable resource.
Save money on your energy bills: Installing solar tiles can also save you money on your energy bills. You could save up to 50% on your power bills depending on the size of your roof and how much sunshine it receives. Solar tiles are an excellent investment for anyone who wants to save money and help the environment at the same time.
Ending Note:
RKG Roofing and Construction is a leading roofing contractor in Fort Worth, TX, specializing in solar roofing systems.
If you’d like to learn more about solar tiles, contact us right now for a free consultation. We’ll be delighted to answer any of your queries.
