Nobody predicted Tesla’s solar roof tile. And who would have, with Tesla largely leaving the solar panel side in the hands of Solar City and the rest of the industry, and apparently focusing on Powerwall. It starts to make sense when we factor in that Elon Musk is the majority shareholder in both Solar City and Tesla Motors Inc.
What Makes the Tesla Solar Roof Tile Special?
Companies like CertainTeed and Dow have been quietly turning out solar shingles for a while. SunTegra Solar Roof Systems and Atlantis Energy Systems are into asphalt and slate. They all work basically the same way. This is, clad thin film solar cells in tile material and cable up. 
Elon Musk took the concept to new levels of allureness, just like he did with his Tesla roadster. His solar roof tile makes an architectural statement that will have designers salivating to use it. In so doing, he reaches out to three significant market segments. Conspicious consumers, green thinkers, and folk that just want to drive down their energy bill with one simple message.
The Attractions of the Tesla Solar Roof Tile
Tesla claims property owners will receive the following benefits by installing its new, creative product:
- The solar panels are invisible from the street, yet full exposed to the sun (see right hand image above)
- There are three fashion statements, as opposed to the traditional ‘one size fits all approach
- A solar tiled roof is cheaper than a regular one after factoring in projected savings on utility bills
Is This Another One for Rich Kids with Solar Toys
We think not, although we are most likely to see Tesla solar roof tiles on new construction projects. Certainly they should prove a popular choice in residential developments where external photovoltaic collectors disturb roof lines. Seems like another Elon Musk success chalked up. Images courtesy of Tesla.
