Integrated solar panels, also called in-roof solar panels or built-in solar panels, are designed to be installed as part of your home’s roof. They replace a section of roofing material rather than being mounted on top of the existing roof.
Integrated solar panels are installed flush within the roof structure, replacing sections of the roofing material, while regular panels are mounted on the rooftop.
While integrated solar panels share multiple similarities with traditional solar panels, one key difference is their lower efficiency rate. Normal, roof-mounted solar panels are typically 16-22% efficient, whereas integrated solar panels have efficiency rates of 6-17%.
Roof-integrated solar panels in the UK are quite the initial investment, yet they can lead to substantial savings in the long run. Based on your property size and the solar panel size, in-roof solar panels in the UK can save you between £440 and £1,005 a year.
Technically, roof-integrated solar panels function just like traditional solar panels or solar roof tiles, using photovoltaic cells to convert sunlight into electricity. However, instead of sitting on top of the roof on visible brackets that can affect your home’s aesthetic appeal, they become a part of the roof structure itself.
Normal, roof-mounted solar panels are typically 16-22% efficient, whereas integrated solar panels have efficiency rates of 6-17%. This difference is quite significant, as it determines how much solar power is wasted in the process of electricity generation.