If you're looking at solar but don't love the look of traditional solar panels, PV roof tiles are worth considering. They generate electricity like a standard solar panel, but sit flush within your roof covering for a much cleaner finish.
This guide breaks down how solar roof tiles work, how they compare to conventional solar panels, and whether they're a cost effective option for your property.
What are PV roof tiles?
PV roof tiles (also called solar roof tiles, solar slates, or solar shingles) are individual tiles that generate electricity from sunlight.
Instead of sitting on top of your roof, they replace existing roof tiles and become part of a roof integrated solar system.
You'll often see systems like:
- Marley Solartile
- GB Sol integrated solar
- Tesla tiles (more common in the US)
- Traditional solar panels are mounted on top of roof battens
- Solar tiles are fixed directly into the roof structure
- Solar roof tiles: streamlined appearance, sit flush with the roof
- Traditional solar panels: mounted above tiles, more visible
- Traditional solar panels: higher peak output and efficiency
- Solar tiles: slightly lower rated output per square metre
- Solar roof tiles cost: higher upfront installation costs
- Conventional solar panels: more cost effective option
- Building a new roof or working on new builds
- Replacing existing roof tiles anyway
- In conservation areas or dealing with listed buildings
- Focused on aesthetics and a clean roof design
- Installing a whole roof system rather than a small array
- Remove existing tiles in the chosen roof area
- Prepare roof battens and waterproof layer
- Install integrated solar tiles
- Connect wiring and inverter
- Re-tile surrounding areas with non solar tiles
- Roof battens for structure
- Adhesive flashing rolls for waterproofing
- Fireproofing materials tested to European fire safety standards
- Electrical connections for solar PV output
- Roof size (per square metre)
- Roof types and complexity
- Number of tiles installed
- Whether it's part of a new roof
- Access and installation time
- Solar tiles can be 20–50% more expensive than conventional solar panels
- Costs can balance out if you were already planning to replace roof tiles
- Roof direction (south facing performs best, north facing is less efficient)
- Roof area available
- System size and rated output
- Shading from dormer windows or nearby buildings
- Lower peak output per tile
- More surface area required
- Still capable of strong long-term energy generation
- You're in conservation areas
- Your property is a listed building
- The installation changes the roof shape significantly
- Meet fireproofing standards
- Withstand UK weather conditions
- Function as a durable roof covering
- Clean, streamlined appearance
- Blend seamlessly with existing tiles
- Ideal for new builds and roof replacements
- Lower visual impact than panels
- Good for sensitive planning areas
- Higher installation costs
- Lower efficiency than traditional solar panels
- More complex installation process
- Less flexible for small systems
- Reduce carbon emissions
- Generate renewable energy
- Lower reliance on grid electricity
- Reduce energy bills over time
- Solar panels
- Integrated solar systems
- Battery storage
They're designed to blend seamlessly with traditional roof tiles like concrete tiles or natural slates.
How do solar roof tiles work?
Each tile contains solar PV cells, just like a standard solar panel. When sunlight hits the surface, it generates electricity that can be used in your home.
The key difference is placement:
They connect together to form a full solar roof system across part (or all) of your roof area.
PV roof tiles vs traditional solar panels
Appearance
If aesthetics matter, integrated solar is usually the preferred choice.
Performance
This means you may need more roof space to generate the same energy.
Cost
However, if you're already replacing a new roof, solar tiles can make more financial sense.
When are solar roof tiles the best option?
PV roof tiles are a strong fit if you're:
They're often seen as the perfect solution where traditional solar would look too bulky.
Can you install solar tiles on an existing roof?
Yes, but it usually involves removing existing tiles first.
Typical process:
Because of this, installation costs are higher than installing solar panels onto an existing roof.
Installation process explained
The installation process is similar to standard roofing work, with added electrical integration.
Key components include:
The tiles are installed in rows and connected as a system to generate electricity efficiently.
How much do solar roof tiles cost?
Solar roof tiles cost more than traditional solar panels, but pricing depends on:
As a rough guide:
How much energy do solar tiles generate?
Energy generated depends on:
While solar tiles are slightly less efficient, they still produce significant solar power and can reduce electricity bills.
Are solar roof tiles efficient?
They are efficient, just not quite as efficient as standard panels.
Most systems come with a performance warranty, often 20–25 years.
Planning permission and regulations
In many cases, solar installations fall under permitted development.
However, you may need planning permission if:
All systems should comply with the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) to ensure quality and eligibility for incentives.
Fire safety and durability
Modern solar roof systems are tested against strict European fire safety tests.
They are designed to:
In most cases, they replace standard tiles without compromising roof integrity.
Pros and cons of solar roof tiles
Pros
Cons
Environmental impact
Like all solar PV systems, solar tiles help:
They are a long-term investment in energy efficiency.
Final thoughts: are PV roof tiles worth it?
PV roof tiles are not always the cheapest option, but they make sense in the right situation.
If you want maximum efficiency at the lowest cost, traditional solar panels are usually the better choice.
If you're prioritising aesthetics, planning constraints, or installing a new roof, solar roof tiles offer a clean and integrated alternative.
Get a quote for solar roof tiles
At CRG Direct, we help you compare solar installation options across:
Use our solar calculator to see how much energy you could generate, how much you could save on electricity bills, and whether solar roof tiles are the right fit for your property.