Photovoltaic Shingles, are they worth it?

[JP]

It's time for re-roofing the house and we're thinking of adding a bank of photovoltaic shingles on the south side of the house. Anybody taken the plunge on these and have any good comments?

JP

[Joseph Meehan]

I don't think their time as come YET, under most circumstances.

[hallerb]

The IDEAL angle & direction for a solar panel is probably not the angle and direction of your roof:(

The cost to buy, install and maintain probably exceed the life expectancy of the product.

they cant generate enough electric to pay for themselves before they die of old age.

if your in say phoenix arizonia you have a better chance of $ than say seattle washington.

Your probably better off putting up some panels to heat water, they have a shorter payback and check local codes, some yuppie municipalties think they are ugly and have rules against them:(

Or your neighbors may get mad thinking they decrease nearby home values:(

Too bad they arent more fiancially effective

[Andy]

All that hallerb says is true.

Here's an easier proposition:

If you can get them, per square foot, for less than the cost of solar panels ( $6 per square foot), you might consider it. Otherwise stick to solar panels, which are cheaper and last longer, if you are BOUND AND DETERMINED to use solar power...... But, you'll be a lot better off by just reducing your electric useage.....

Andy

[John Grabowski]

If your utility company or a government agency is not offering any sort of rebate or tax incentive then it is probably not financially viable. New Jersey has one of the best financial incentive programs in the nation, however the system must be approved by the power company. The system must be set up to gain maximum sun exposure.

Please keep in mind that these systems require maintenance. Solar panels go bad on occasion and must be replaced. If you are serious about doing this, there are installers who specialize in these systems and are aware of any financial incentive programs in your area. Talk to as many people as possible. Ask to see other homes with photovoltaic systems and talk to the owners.

A photovoltaic system is not a substitute for a home generator unless you add a bank of batteries which will add to the installation cost and the maintenance.

I think one thing is certain; utility rates will continue to rise.