Cost Comparisons and Benefits of Solartyle Solar Tiles
The solar PV market in the UK is highly competitive, with distributors working on tight margins to compete with large energy suppliers. Solartyle provides a unique, premium solar tile system that not only offers enhanced aesthetic and functional advantages but also creates better profit margins for distributors and installers.
This document outlines the cost structure, profit potential and advantages of the Solartyle system compared to standard in-roof solar PV systems.
Distributor Margins
Cost Comparison
Solartyle 4kW System Cost Breakdown
Installer Profit Potential
- Installer Total Profit: £1,561.28
- Profit Margin for Distributor/Merchant: Clear room for margin without undercutting the premium nature of the product.
Standard 4kW In-Roof System Costs
- Approximate cost to end user: £5,600.00
- Solartyle System Uplift: ~24.4% increase in cost compared to standard systems.
Cost Comparison Case Study
Although our Solartyle system is more expensive than standard in-roof systems, it is designed to work seamlessly with the most cost-effective roof tiles on the market, Concrete TLE tiles.
If we were up against a Redland Clay tile or a Natural Slate and an in-roof system, Solartyle paired with Concrete TLE tiles can provide a significant cost advantage. Additionally, the aesthetic appeal of Solartyle would likely outweigh an architect's preference for a higher-spec roof tile.
Below is an example based on a 200m² roof, comparing costs using Redland Clay tiles vs. Slate vs. Concrete TLE tile and Solartyle.
Significant Cost Savings
- Against Redland Clay: Concrete TLE with Solartyle offers a saving of £4,632.32 (15.6% on total roofing and solar costs).
- Against Slate: Concrete TLE with Solartyle offers a saving of £10,632.32 (29.9% on total roofing and solar costs).
Why Solartyle?
While Solartyle systems come with a slightly higher upfront cost, the advantages they bring justify the premium pricing. Below are the key benefits that make Solartyle an excellent choice for distributors, installers and end users:
Aesthetic and Design Advantages
- ✅ Seamless Roof Integration: Solartyle tiles blend naturally with existing roofing.
- ✅ Flexible Installation: Can be used around complex structures like dormers.
- ✅ Higher Energy Efficiency: Provides superior performance in energy capture.
Below is a case study showing how using SolarTyle can make better use of space than a standard in-roof system. This is a project we’re working on where we gave two options for a south facing roof in London. The client wanted to maximise output of the Solar System, so we produced two systems on Easy PV software. One using a in-roof system and another using SolarTyle.
• Solartyle = 6.8kw system
• In-roof system = 4.98 ww
Installation Benefits
- ✅ No Additional Battens Needed: Reduces installation complexity.
- ✅ Multiple Installer Options: Can be installed by roofers or electricians.
- ✅ Reduces Need for Roofing Tiles: Saving costs on overall roofing materials.
Profitability
- ✅ Higher Margins: Distributors and installers achieve better profit margins.
- ✅ Premium Appeal: Increases property value while offering homeowners sustainable energy.
Conclusion
The Solartyle system represents a premium solar solution that aligns with current market trends emphasizing both functionality and aesthetics. By positioning Solartyle as a superior alternative to standard in-roof systems, distributors and merchants can benefit from healthier profit margins while offering installers and end users a product that stands out in a crowded marketplace.
With its seamless integration, design flexibility and cost efficiencies for installers, Solartyle creates a strong value proposition for the supply chain.
