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When you think of solar power systems, you probably imagine the classic solar array: some black panels that point toward the sky and absorb the energy of the sun’s light and convert it into usable electricity. But if you look closely at the roofs of some houses, you might just notice a surprise.
In 2016, Tesla — yes, that Tesla — introduced something novel. Instead of solar panels that sit in your front yard or stand out on the roof, Tesla decided to turn every shingle into a solar panel. The Tesla solar roof replaces an existing roof and captures sunlight to help power your home in a clean and streamlined manner.
The Tesla solar roof system has not had the smoothest of rollouts, but the company recently announced plans to double down on the concept and try to turn what is currently a pricey project into a reality for consumers. (Tesla does not operate a public relations department to field requests for comment.) For homeowners, that creates a conundrum: Should you go with the standard solar panel or try the less intrusive (but less proven) Tesla solar roof?
Solar panels
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Solar panels should be relatively familiar by now, as they have been gaining popularity and have become more affordable in recent years. An array can be located on your roof or set to stand in your yard, depending on what works best for you. While there are a variety of different brands and types of panels, they all offer a clean energy alternative to fossil fuel sources like coal or natural gas. These panels can be expensive, and some are more difficult to install than others. But for the most part, you can expect cheaper energy bills, a smaller carbon footprint and increased property value.
Tesla solar roof
Tesla
The Tesla solar roof has all of the great promise that you would expect from the innovative company founded by Elon Musk. Instead of using panels, the concept turns your entire roof into your solar array. The Tesla solar roof uses tempered glass panels that replace your standard shingles, providing the same protection you’d expect from a traditional roof while also capturing solar energy. The Tesla solar roof is novel, but less proven and harder to transfer to another home if you move because they are custom made for each roof.
Solar panels or a Tesla solar roof?
Pricing
Price is a tricky thing when it comes to solar systems, as a lot of it is going to be dependent on what your house and property is capable of supporting. There is the cost of solar panels, the infrastructure needed to support them, the installation costs — and you have to account for the actual capacity of the system. In both cases, you can get tax credits and other incentives for installing these systems, so that will help to ease the price somewhat. Research suggests solar panels cost between $15,000 to $25,000 to purchase and install.
For the sake of simplicity: conventional solar panels are cheaper than the Tesla solar roof in terms of the overall cost. Tesla has also had some challenges keeping the price down for its solar roof system, which has been a point of issue for some consumers. Various media reports have suggested that prices can scale from $30,000 to $75,000, with some consumers reporting installation costs as high as $100,000. The price has also shifted dramatically without warning, which has led to some feeling caught off guard by the cost.
However, in terms of the per watt price, the solar roof will produce a better value. It might still not be enough to justify the significantly steeper up front cost, which can nearly double the price of conventional solar panels in some cases — plus, you’ll have to get the Tesla Powerwall battery for energy storage, which increases the cost even more.
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Installation
The installation process for solar energy systems can be complicated. In general, traditional solar panels are easier because they can be installed in different places depending on the layout of your property — either on your roof or on the ground. The Tesla solar roof can only be installed on your roof, obviously, and is a bit more of a to-do since it requires replacing your entire roof. There are fewer contractors familiar with the Tesla solar roof system than conventional panels, so this can create challenges in finding a capable installer.
Solar power capabilities
In terms of the actual ability to generate solar power, the Tesla solar roof is more effective than traditional solar panels. It has a lower cost per watt than conventional solar panels and Tesla’s Powerwall is a better storage system for generated energy. Over time, the Tesla solar roof may justify the steeper up-front cost through these power generation and storage capabilities, but you’ll have to be thinking very long term to make that math work.
Mobility and longevity
One of the down sides of the Tesla solar roof is the fact that it really can’t move with you. Because it is custom-fit to the roof of your home, you can’t pack it up and install it on another home. Conventional solar panels offer a bit more flexibility here, as you could potentially take your solar system with you — though you may want to leave it to benefit from the boost in property value that they provide.
Tesla’s solar roof does have an advantage when it comes to longevity, as the system comes with a lifetime warranty. If something goes wrong, you can get your shingles replaced. If you’re planning to be in the same house for a long time, this offers additional peace of mind. Solar panels, on the other hand, typically only have warranties for up to 20 years.
Winner for most: Solar panels
For now, conventional solar panels are the safer bet if you are looking to make the switch to solar power. They are a proven product. They are also typically cheaper and offer a bit more flexibility in terms of how you install them.
Tesla’s solar roof shows a lot of promise, but the custom tiles can be cost-prohibitive and early troubles with the product make it hard to recommend at this stage. Future versions of the Tesla solar roof may improve and make good on the promising concept. For now, stick with what works so you can save on your energy bill and shrink your carbon footprint.