Tesla Solar Roof Tiles: Things You Need to Know

Tesla Solar Roof tiles have created significant buzz since their announcement in 2016. Offering an innovative approach to solar energy, these roof tiles combine aesthetics and functionality by replacing traditional roof materials with energy-generating tiles. If you’re considering this cutting-edge technology for your home, here’s everything you need to know.

What Are Tesla Solar Roof Tiles?

Tesla Solar Roof tiles are a revolutionary product designed to replace conventional roof tiles while generating solar energy. Unlike traditional solar panels mounted on a metal racking system, these tiles serve as both roofing material and solar power generators.

Initially available in various styles such as Tuscan glass, slate glass, textured glass, and smooth glass, Tesla began offering only textured and smooth glass tiles for the Australian market during pre-orders in 2016. These tiles not only mimic the look of standard roofing materials but also provide a sleek and modern appearance.

How Do Tesla Solar Roof Tiles Work?

Tesla Solar Roof tiles work similarly to conventional solar panels by converting sunlight into electricity. However, their design is distinct. Each tile comprises three layers:

• Solar Cell: The innermost layer that captures sunlight.
• Film Layer: A coating that conceals the solar cell from view.
• Tempered Glass: The outermost layer that provides durability.

These layers work together to deliver high efficiency while maintaining a seamless roof aesthetic.

Cost of Tesla Solar Roof Tiles

As a pioneering technology, Tesla Solar Roof tiles come at a premium price. A quote from March 2021 for a 3,947-square-foot roof with a 12.3kW Solar Roof ranged between $80,000 and $100,000, a significant increase from earlier estimates of around $55,000. Price fluctuations are common with Tesla products, reflecting the complexity and installation challenges associated with this technology.

Roof complexity significantly impacts the final cost. Tesla categorizes roofs into three types:

• Simple: Single-level roofs with few obstructions and low pitch.
• Intermediate: Multi-level roofs with higher pitch and moderate obstructions.
• Complex: Multi-level roofs with steep pitch and numerous obstacles.

Additionally, installation costs can vary as installers adapt to this relatively new technology.

Specifications

Tesla Solar Roof tiles come with impressive warranties and ratings:

* The warranty and ratings information is specific to the United States. It may vary for Australian customers.

Using the Tesla App

Tesla’s app integrates seamlessly with Solar Roof tiles and other Tesla products like the Tesla Powerwall. Key features include:

• Charging: If you have both the Powerwall and Solar Roof, you can track their charging in real time through the app.
• Customization Options: The app features a ‘self-powered’ mode, which lets you use your stored solar energy to power your home after dark (if you also have the Powerwall). With solar installed, you have two settings to choose from—Balanced or Cost Saving. Balanced mode ensures your home runs solely on solar energy during daylight hours, while Cost Saving mode uses stored energy when electricity rates are higher, helping you save on energy costs. This option works well if electricity prices fluctuate throughout the day. Check your local bill to confirm this.
• Power Flow: The app shows the amount of electricity your solar system generates and how it’s allocated between your Powerwall and home. Any excess energy is exported back to the grid, potentially earning you a solar feed-in tariff.
• Energy Usage: This feature breaks down your energy sources between solar, Powerwall, and the grid, helping you track how much energy you rely on from the grid and make any necessary adjustments.
• Backup History: The app provides historical data on utility outages, showing the dates and durations of power interruptions, which can be useful for future planning.

Are They Worth It?

They can be a valuable investment for homeowners looking to cut energy costs and improve home aesthetics. While the initial cost may be higher, they offer long-term savings through energy generation and can increase property value. Their durability and sleek design make them an appealing choice for many homeowners.

Other Considerations

• Aesthetics: Solar roofs offer a more visually appealing alternative to traditional panels, seamlessly integrating with existing roofing tiles. Available in various colors and designs, they are ideal for homeowners who prioritize design alongside functionality.
• Repairability: Thanks to their modular design, solar roof tiles are easy to repair. Each tile is tempered to shatter into small pieces, simplifying replacements.
• Durability: These roofs are more than three times stronger than regular roofing tiles, making them an excellent option for new builds where durability is crucial.

Who Should Consider These?

• New Builds: Perfect for homeowners building new homes, as these replace both the traditional roof and solar panels in one solution.
• Design-Focused Buyers: Ideal for those who value aesthetics and want a sleek, modern look combined with advanced solar technology.
• Cost-Conscious Buyers: A more affordable option for retrofitting existing homes would be traditional solar panels, as the initial cost of these can be higher.

Summary

Tesla Solar Roof tiles represent a leap forward in solar energy technology, combining functionality and design. While the high cost makes them inaccessible to many, prices may decrease as adoption rates rise and manufacturing scales improve. For now, Tesla Solar Roof tiles are best suited for new builds and homeowners seeking cutting-edge, stylish energy solutions. Conventional solar panels remain the more practical choice for those prioritizing cost and efficiency.