Tesla Solar Roof Cost Vs. Traditional Solar Panels

Tesla has been dabbling in industries that are far-flung and diverse. In 2016, the company made its entry into the world of solar panels and solar roofs.

The Tesla solar roof has a unique design that integrates photovoltaic solar panels with the regular shingles of a normal roof. That combines aesthetic value with functionality, as homeowners can now experience the benefits of solar energy without giving up on design.

However, you might want to consider several factors before you jump right into buying a Tesla solar roof. How does it compare with traditional solar panels? Which one is more cost-effective? And are they both equally practical?

This article will provide you with an overview of both these roof types to make an informed decision!

Key Takeaways

• Tesla’s solar roof combines active and inactive shingles to maintain aesthetics while generating solar power, but it can be significantly more expensive than traditional solar panels.
• The cost per watt of Tesla’s solar roof is lower than traditional panels, but the total installation cost, including a new roof, can be much higher.
• Tesla’s solar roof may offer aesthetic and design benefits but may not be cost-effective for those not planning to replace their entire roof, while traditional solar panels are more practical and economical for many homeowners.

What Is the Tesla Solar Roof?

Many people often encounter some hurdles while designing their homes because the solar panels alter the aesthetic. In 2016, Tesla CEO Elon Musk launched the Tesla solar roof in response to these concerns.

The Tesla solar roof combines active and inactive shingles without compromising on the design. The active shingles comprise solar cells that generate solar power for your home. The inactive shingles are essentially regular shingles that protect the home and maintain the aesthetics of the structure.

The roof tiles measure 15 x 45 inches each. They also come with a 25-year long warranty period. The Tesla solar roof tiles are exceptionally durable, and they can sustain hail of 1.75-inch diameters and wind speeds of about 166 miles per hour.

Different materials constitute the two different types of shingles. While the active solar shingles are made of tempered glass, the inactive ones consist of painted steel. However, both look identical to conventional slate roof tiles.

What Changes Were Introduced in 2021?

By the end of 2019, Tesla released the Solar Roof V3, which came in only one style but significantly fewer parts. That was a major departure from previous iterations of the Tesla solar roof.

However, the company admitted to making several mistakes in this product, and in March 2021, Tesla updates its solar roof pricing. It was more expensive than it ever had been before.

Even though the cost per watt of solar energy remained constant, they increased the price of the inactive shingles based on the complexity of the homeowner’s roof. The price went up again within a month, jumping from $9.75 per square foot to $14 per square foot. A complex roof can cost you as much as $19 per square foot.

Moreover, all of Tesla’s solar roofs have to be combined with Powerwall batteries, driving up the cost even further.

The active solar roofing tiles cost about $2.01 per watt, and the inactive shingles’ cost varies depending on roof complexity. That ties up to features such as pitch, obstructions on the roof (vents, chimneys, etc.), and others.

You can take a look at this table to understand better the changes in price that Tesla has been rolling out based on roof complexity:

The actual cost of a Tesla roof depends on the size of your home, along with your energy usage calculated every month.

It may also vary depending on the remote inspection done by the Tesla design team to figure out the logistics. Some customers may have to shell out as much as $5,000 to upgrade their electrical panel.

How Does the Tesla Solar Roof Cost Compare with a Traditional Solar Panel?

It is a deceiving question, so let’s jump right into an example.

If your roof is roughly 1700 square feet and your monthly electric bill hovers around $250, Tesla would suggest you install a 10.23 kW solar roof system. Assuming that it is of moderate roof complexity, this would cost you approximately $40,000, including the federal tax credit.

A traditional 10.23 kW system would cost you around $19,000. That’s less than half of what you would pay if you got a Tesla solar roof. However, keep in mind that the Tesla solar roof is not just a solar panel but a whole new roof.

Total installation price probably isn’t the best way to compare the cost of these two alternatives. Instead, we can look at the cost per watt of the solar roof and compare it with the cost per watt of solar panels.

The average cost per watt of solar in the U.S is around $2.85, excluding federal tax credit. It is more expensive than Tesla’s solar shingles, which cost around $2.01 per watt. But just because Tesla’s cost per watt is lower than the traditional cost per watt does not mean that it is the best way to introduce clean energy to your home.

Here is a table with a quick summary:

Efficiency of the Tesla Solar Roof vs. Traditional Solar Panels

Tesla has not yet released any official numbers regarding the efficiency of the Tesla solar roof. But estimates suggest that a typical solar shingle may have around 14 to 18 percent efficiency.

Contrast this with your traditional solar panels, and you will see that they have an efficiency of around 22 to 23 percent.

It is important to keep the element of efficiency in mind as you decide which one works best for you, as your return on investment (ROI) might be lower if you prefer a Tesla solar roof over the traditional solar panels.

When Should I Buy a Tesla Solar Roof?

Keep in mind that a Tesla solar roof is not just a replacement for your solar panels but your entire roof structure. If you aim to build a whole new roof, you would be better off getting a Tesla roof than solar panels.

Moreover, the Tesla solar roof has been designed keeping the value of aesthetics in mind. It is meant to improve the overall design of your house, along with the efficiency offered by clean energy.

But, if you don’t intend on changing your entire roof, it would be a better idea for you to go for the traditional solar panels. These are much more economical and efficient. You will not have to take down your entire roof.

Do remember that traditional solar panels are not designed for beauty but rather for efficiency and practicality. If you are looking for functionality, then traditional solar panels are a better choice for you.

Tesla Solar Roof and the Powerwall Battery

Another aspect to remind yourself of is that the Tesla solar roof runs on a Powerwall battery, which you will have to install along with the roof.

The Powerwall battery will further drive up your costs, and the process of your solar payback is likely to be longer.

There is no official figure released by Tesla regarding the exact price of a Powerwall but estimates state that it probably costs around $8500 before installation and $12,000 after. But these estimates do not account for the installation costs or any other miscellaneous costs.

If you live in an area that provides net metering, the extra financial burden of a solar battery such as the Powerwall is unnecessary. For many homeowners, the additional feature of the Powerwall battery, along with the extra cost, does not seem to make much sense.

Tesla’s Issues with Installation

Tesla didn’t commence solar roof installations until 2018, and we still don’t know how many of these roofs have been successfully installed.

While the procedure has been a breeze for some, it has been a nightmare for many others. Installation varies anywhere from four days to two months, clearly indicating that Tesla has not quite worked out the installation procedure yet.

Moreover, Tesla’s energy division has had some sub-par customer reviews in the past, all available on SolarReviews.

Case Study: Tesla Solar Roof vs. Traditional Solar Panels with Solar Panels Network USA

Background

At Solar Panels Network USA, we aim to provide homeowners with the best solar solutions tailored to their specific needs and preferences. A recent project involved a client deciding between the Tesla solar roof and traditional solar panels. The client sought an efficient, cost-effective solar solution that would also enhance the aesthetic appeal of their home.

Project Overview

The client, a homeowner with a keen interest in sustainable living, was considering upgrading their energy system. They were intrigued by the sleek design of the Tesla solar roof but were also aware of the cost implications. After a thorough consultation, we proposed a comparative approach to help them make an informed decision.

Implementation

Assessment and Comparison: We began by evaluating the client’s energy consumption, roof structure, and aesthetic preferences. Our team conducted a detailed analysis, comparing the Tesla solar roof with traditional solar panels in terms of cost, efficiency, and overall practicality.

Cost Analysis: The Tesla solar roof, with its unique integration of active and inactive shingles, presented a higher initial investment. The cost per watt was lower than traditional solar panels, but the overall installation cost, including the Powerwall battery and potential roof complexity surcharges, was substantially higher. In contrast, traditional solar panels offered a lower upfront cost and higher efficiency rates, making them a more economical choice.

Efficiency and Aesthetics: While the Tesla solar roof offered an efficiency range of 14-18%, traditional solar panels provided a higher efficiency of 22-23%. This difference in efficiency could impact the return on investment (ROI) over time. However, the Tesla solar roof’s design seamlessly integrated with the home’s aesthetics, offering a modern and visually appealing alternative to the bulkier traditional panels.

Installation Process: We outlined the installation procedures for both options. The Tesla solar roof required a complete roof replacement, extending the installation timeline and increasing costs. Traditional solar panels, on the other hand, could be installed on the existing roof, simplifying the process and reducing installation time.

Results

Client Decision: After considering all factors, the client opted for traditional solar panels due to their higher efficiency, lower cost, and quicker installation process. The aesthetic appeal of the Tesla solar roof was attractive, but the overall practicality and cost-effectiveness of traditional panels were more aligned with the client’s needs.

Energy Output and Savings: The installed traditional solar panels delivered excellent energy output, significantly reducing the client’s electricity bills. The higher efficiency of traditional panels ensured optimal energy generation, even on less sunny days, maximizing the client’s investment in solar technology.

Customer Satisfaction: The client was highly satisfied with the decision, appreciating the balance between cost, efficiency, and aesthetics. The traditional solar panels not only provided substantial energy savings but also maintained a neat appearance on the roof, meeting the client’s aesthetic expectations to a considerable extent.

Summary

This case study highlights the importance of a thorough evaluation when choosing between the Tesla solar roof and traditional solar panels. While the Tesla solar roof offers a modern, integrated design, traditional solar panels prove to be more cost-effective and efficient for most homeowners. At Solar Panels Network USA, our goal is to guide clients through these decisions, ensuring they receive the best solar solution tailored to their unique needs and preferences.

Expert Insights From Our Solar Panel Installers About Tesla Solar Roof Cost Vs. Traditional Solar Panels

The Tesla solar roof offers an aesthetically pleasing option for homeowners who prioritize design without compromising on functionality. However, the higher installation costs and the need to replace the entire roof make it a significant investment compared to traditional solar panels, which are more practical and cost-effective for many.

Senior Solar Installer

Traditional solar panels remain the best choice for most homeowners due to their proven efficiency and lower cost per watt. While Tesla’s solar roof has its advantages in aesthetics and integrated design, it is not necessarily the most economical option for those who don’t require a new roof.

Lead Solar Technician

For those looking to combine the benefits of solar energy with a modern, sleek roof design, the Tesla solar roof is an innovative solution. However, it’s crucial to consider the additional costs associated with the Powerwall battery and the complexity of the roof, which can significantly drive up the overall price.

Solar Installation Expert

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The Bottom Line

If you are an innovation enthusiast willing to shell out some extra money and replace your roof entirely, the Tesla solar roof is made for you.

Tesla has made a name for itself and has a large fanbase, and if you would like a taste of the company’s creations, you can consider investing in a solar roof.

Additionally, Tesla’s solar roof is a good option to consider if your roof is smaller and you’re looking for an upgrade or if aesthetics matter to you.

However, if you are not looking to install a new roof, then the traditional solar panels are the better alternative between the two. They are cost-effective, energy-efficient, practical, and have a long history of reliable and trustworthy reviews.

We hope that this overview of the Tesla solar roof and traditional solar panels gave you a good idea of your future in clean energy!