4 ms·
Solar shingles aren't nearly as stupid as solar roadways. We already put solar panels on roofs. This just integrates it into the waterproofing layer of the roof
by chipsa 6y ago
Solar shingles aren't nearly as stupid as solar roadways. We already put solar panels on roofs. This just integrates it into the waterproofing layer of the roof, instead of sitting on top.
Solar roadways have the problem of: you need to -ing drive on them. So you need to build them strong enough to support the weight of a tractor trailers, while also making sure it has traction. Which goes against the ability of the solar panels to actually see the sun well.
- birdyrooster 6y agoBut part of why solar roadways also suck (and how they are similar to solar shingles) is they 1) use less efficient cells than standard mounted panels. One article I found calculated an astonishingly poor 4.9% efficiency based on Tesla's own specs, 2) are stuck with the angle of the road/roof surface to the sun which can reduce capacity further, and 3) they have many more connections which can degrade and eventually short to ground (particularly if water gets under the flashing). Lots of complexity and money for quite sub-optimal solar generation. Also despite everyone saying they look "beautiful" I think they are too busy because of how reflective they are and take away from the architectural beauty. If solar shingles end up being a failure, people will be able to recognize your roof, and now your house is now an eyesore with crapware on top of it that needs to be replaced. source: https://pv-magazine-usa.com/2020/02/10/whats-the-efficiency-of-a-tesla-glass-tile-solar-roof/ https://pv-magazine-usa.com/2020/02/10/whats-the-efficiency-...