An Eco-Friendly Roof?
Many companies and businesses have promoted ideas of solar panels and the significance that they will have in the improvement of climate change and pollution. Well, one specific company decided to take the idea of Solar Panels and improve it. Tesla has made many advanced developments to helping the environment, starting with their all-electric cars to their innovative idea of creating Solar Roof Shingles.
So, what are the Solar Roof Shingles? Well, the Solar Roof Shingles are miniature solar panels to replace someone’s entire roof with, effectively utilizing natural energy to power an entire house, all while looking pretty. The solar shingles connect and join with Powerwall, which Tesla describes as “a compact home battery that can store energy produced with solar“. The use of the Powerwall is to make clean, solar energy available at anytime of day, even night.
How are these solar shingles different from normal solar panels? The quick answer to this question is that the shingles are easier to install. To be installed, solar panels require more construction, such as drilling and sealing. This is because the panels have to go on top of already installed shingles, meaning the panels require sealing to guarantee watertightness. Since the shingles do not need to be applied on top of another material, they do not require rigorous construction. Another reason why the solar shingles may be a better option than panels is because they look much better. Tesla has given many color options and ways for the shingles to fit one’s house aesthetic. The shingles are also next-level compared to other panels. The Tesla shingles are made out of tempered glass, but are able to endure any weather situations, including high-speed hail.
Now, Tesla isn’t the only company that has come up with the idea of a solar roof. There is also Luma Solar. Luma Solar’s main product is their solar roof, which is not as popular as Tesla’s but is more efficient that Tesla. Luma Solar Shingles are said to have a 21% efficiency rate, while Tesla’s shingles are said to have an 18%-20% efficiency rate. Even though Luma is proven to be better, Tesla’s solar shingles seem to be gaining more and more popular. This is because Luma Solar only allows for a 5 year warranty, while Tesla allows for their solar panels to work at 80% after 25 years, a much longer time than Luma.
The Tesla Solar Roof allows for many advancements to help the environment and the people. While the shingles produce clean energy for people to use, it also lowers the electricity bill for people in the future. Unfortunately, the price of the shingles plus the installation is very expensive. But, it’s up to you to decide whether you would spend thousands in the moment to save thousands in the future.
Sources:
