What are the different types of solar roofing systems?

With the end of the Part L 2022 transition period in June, new energy efficiency regulations for homes have come into force and are changing the future of sustainable construction in the UK. 

In effect, if you are building a house in England, it is now required to generate 75%-80% fewer carbon emissions by 2025. This is a key part of the national effort to achieve net zero by 2050 and requires developers to look at ways to actively reduce emissions immediately.

One of the best ways to do that is through the installation of solar power. Read on to learn more about the different types of solar roofing systems available today, along with their advantages and disadvantages. 

Once you have chosen your preferred type of solar roofing system, you will have to consider whether you want that system tied to the National Grid or whether you want a hybrid system.

A grid-tied system does not include battery storage and any extra electricity your produce will be sent back to the National Grid. Likewise, if you need extra electricity you will have to purchase it from the Grid as you do not have capacity to store your excess energy. 

A hybrid system has integrated batteries which are used to store excess electricity that your solar roofing system produces. You can then use this energy at a later date when needed rather than having to purchase excess electricity from the grid. 

For example, you could store it for use at peak times to save money that way. Alternatively, you could use the batteries to store cheaper electricity purchased from the grid at off-peak times and then use that energy later at peak time – again, saving you money. 

Each system requires a different type of inverter, and a hybrid system will also need battery storage installing on site. This increases the initial capital outlay but can pay back over time and become more cost-effective in the long run.

Find out more about batteries and inverters.