For many people, the thought of turning your entire roof into a power station sounds like the dream. No chunky panels, no compromise on appearance - just sleek roof tiles that quietly generate electricity.
Solar tiles, sometimes called solar slates, promise exactly that. They blend into your roof while helping to cut bills, reduce carbon emissions, and provide a solid return on investment. But the big question remains: do they live up to the promise, or do traditional solar panels still come out on top?
What Are Solar Tiles?
Solar tiles are roof coverings that double up as miniature solar panels. Each tile contains solar cells that capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. From the street, they look like ordinary roof tiles.
There are two main styles:
- Larger, slimline solar tiles – shaped more like narrow solar panels, installed in neat rows down the roof.
- Camouflaged solar tiles – designed to mimic traditional roof tiles, often smaller and less efficient but ideal for keeping the look of a property intact.
Either way, they can be installed alongside regular tiles, so only the sun-facing sections of a roof need to generate power.
When Do Solar Tiles Make Sense?
Solar roof tiles are most practical when:
- You’re re-roofing or building a new home. Since you’re paying for a roof covering anyway, the cost of normal tiles can be offset against the solar option.
- The look of your property matters. In conservation areas or with listed buildings, planning permission for standard panels can be tricky. Tiles are discreet and often the only solar solution permitted.
- Your roof is complicated. With multiple angles and limited space, panels can look messy or leave gaps. Tiles, being smaller, can fill those awkward spaces more effectively.
Popular Options
A few examples of solar tile products available in the UK include:
- SolarTyle: Long, slim tiles that come in black or red. They’re relatively efficient and cost around £9,000 for a 4 kW system or £16,000 for an 8 kW system.
- Nulok Solactrix: Slightly smaller tiles that require Nulok’s full roofing system. Expect around £10,000 for a 4 kW system.
- Ergosun Tiles: These mimic real roof tiles by bonding solar cells onto concrete or clay bases. They blend in beautifully but are the most expensive, with an 8 kW system costing roughly £24,000.
How Do They Compare to Panels?
Solar panels are still more efficient and more affordable than solar tiles. For example, a premium in-roof solar panel system might cost about £11,500 for 8 kW, compared to £16,000–£24,000 for tiles of the same size.
This difference affects payback. A high-quality in-roof solar panel system can pay for itself in about 8 years, while solar tiles generally take between 9 and 14 years depending on the system.
That said, if you’re already paying for a new roof, the cost gap narrows. Subtracting what you’d spend on standard tiles makes solar tiles a more attractive option. Click below to watch our video comparison:
The Bottom Line
Solar tiles are not about squeezing out every penny of efficiency. They’re about balance: aesthetics, planning approval, and long-term value. If you’re building or re-roofing, they can be an elegant way to generate clean energy without compromising your home’s appearance.
If looks and planning rules aren’t a concern, solar panels will give you more power for your money. But for those who want the best of both worlds - a roof that looks beautiful and works hard - solar tiles are well worth considering.
If you want to know what would be the best solution for your home, contact us today.
