Integrated Solar Panels

Do you want to take advantage of the cost and environmental benefits of solar panels, but are put off by their unsightly appearance? Then integrated solar panels could be the answer.

Here, we’ll look at integrated solar panels in more detail. We’ll highlight the advantages and disadvantages of the technology, look at the cost of installing them vs conventional panels and review the different types of panels available. This will help you make a more informed decision about whether integrated solar panels are right for your home.

What are integrated solar panels?

Integrated solar panels, also known as in-roof solar panels, use the same solar PV technology as conventional solar panels. But unlike conventional on-roof panels that are installed on top of the roof tiles, integrated panels are embedded into the roof itself.

A section of roof tiles is removed and replaced with a waterproof membrane. A set of slimline solar panels are then installed on top of the membrane so that they sit flush with the surrounding tiles. This creates a much more aesthetically pleasing solution.

Advantages of integrated solar panels

More aesthetically pleasing

Integrated panels sit flush with the roof tiles which allows them to blend in with the roof structure. Looks are subjective, but most people would agree that integrated solar panels look better than conventional solar PV panels.

Lightweight

Conventional solar panels are installed on top of your existing roof tiles. This adds a lot of weight which can cause structural problems, especially on older roofs. With integrated panels, the roof tiles are removed and lightweight panels are installed in their place.

Cheaper to instal on a new roof

As integrated technology becomes more common, the cost of installation has come down. As a result, installing a new integrated solar panel system is now £25 to £40 per m2 cheaper than installing a new tiled roof.

Easier to obtain planning permission

Complying with planning regulations in a conservation area can be challenging. The local authority will look more favourably on an integrated solution that is designed to blend in with neighbouring properties.

Lower maintenance costs

Because integrated solar panels sit flush with the roof, it reduces the risk of birds nesting underneath. The flush-fitting panels also provide better wind resistance. These factors combine to reduce maintenance costs compared to conventional solar panels.

Disadvantages of integrated solar panels

Not as efficient as traditional solar panels

Because integrated solar panels sit flush with the roof tiles, airflow around the panels is restricted. This results in higher operating temperatures which reduces their efficiency by as much as 5-15% compared to conventionally mounted panels.

More expensive to install on an existing roof

While integrated panels are cheaper to install on a new roof, they are more expensive to retrofit on an existing roof. This is because the existing roof tiles have to be removed and a new waterproof membrane installed before the panels can be fitted.

Which manufacturers supply integrated solar panels?

GB-Sol

GB-Sol is one of the UK’s longest-established solar panel manufacturers. Their Roof Integrated System (RIS) is suitable for both part and complete roof replacements. While their PV Slate(opens in a new window) product is designed to blend seamlessly with traditional slate roof tiles.

Viridian Solar

Viridian Solar is one of the UK’s largest manufacturers of integrated solar panels. Their Clearline Fusion range is suitable for whole or part roof integrated installations. The panels also offer superior wind resistance and can be ordered in bespoke sizes.

BMI Redland

BMI Redland is one of Europe’s largest manufacturers of flat and pitched roofing systems. Their InDaX Adapt system is an in-roof solar PV system compatible with all existing roofing systems.

GSE Integration

GSE Integration is a leading French supplier of integrated solar systems. The GSE in-roof system is compatible with all major manufacturers of solar panels and can be adapted for a range of roof types. They also offer the best-value integrated panels on the market.

How much do they cost?

The cost of an integrated solar installation will depend on the size of the system and whether you are installing it on a new roof or retrofitting to an existing one. We have provided the following prices as a rough guide only.

Always check with the manufacturer for up-to-date pricing before making a final decision. Because solar prices are changing fast and manufacturers are releasing new panels all the time.

GSE Integration panels provide the best value. A typical installation on a new roof at the batten stage is around £100 per 270W panel. The cost increases to £200 per panel for a retrofit installation on an existing roof.

So a typical 4kW GSE integration solar panel installation of 16 integrated panels and an inverter, will cost £3200 for a new roof or around £4700 for an existing roof. Actual costs will vary depending on the type and size of panels used.

Viridian Solar panels are more expensive but they offer higher wind resistance than other panels. The panels can also be ordered in bespoke sizes. A typical installation costs £100-£170 per 270W panel on a new roof. Expect to pay twice that for an existing roof.

Are integrated solar panels right for your home?

Solar panel development has focused on improving efficiency. But no matter how efficient panels become, there is no getting away from the fact that they look a little unsightly on traditional tiled roofs.

Integrated solar panels go some way to fixing the problem. This should encourage more homeowners to think about installing solar technology to power their homes. Especially those located in conservation areas.

Current planning regulations don’t prevent solar panels in conservation areas. But homeowners must install panels that minimise the effect on the external appearance of the building. Integrated solar panels are the ideal solution for complying with this regulation.

But buyers should consider that integrated panels are 10-15% less efficient than on-roof panels. And if you are retrofitting on an existing roof, you can expect installation costs to double compared to a new installation.

So integrated panels only make sense if you are planning a new build, replacing your existing roof or are concerned about the aesthetic appearance of your property. For everyone else, on-roof panels are the more cost-effective option.