In-roof versus on-roof PV? (GSE integration)

ccbrowning

We have three roof surfaces we're willing to put solar PV on. One is already covered and is using GSE mounting. When we went and got quotes everyone had some additional costs if we want to do the same for the new ones, and also some panel differences. Are the only real considerations:

• How it looks
• Panel options
• Additional work to remove existing tiles, etc.

Are they more prone to roof leaks or anything, beyond the above?

2nd_time_buyer

Apparently they are not as efficient due to a lack of air gap and presumably increased temperature. Although, I am not sure by how much.

Also, if one panel went wrong, how would you get to it and replace it?

Pile_o_stone

We have roof integrated panels on our garage roof as I much prefer the look of them to ones that sit on the roof like a hat. I would imagine there is some loss of efficiency in summer when the panels would perhaps get hotter than they would with an air gap below, but at those times you normally have more solar power than you know what to do with anyway. 

We have never had a leak with the integrated panels, and I sold the stone roof tiles they replaced to a builder who used them in a renovation he was doing on a local property. This meant the tiles were recycled and they helped pay towards the solar. We don't get issues with pigeons and bees/wasps building nests under them either. It's so windy here in winter that I'd be worried having on-roof panels as they could lift off if the wind got under  them. Not something to worry about with roof integrated.

Solar panels are a bit marmite, where people seem to love them or hate them. Something to consider if you ever want to sell the house. Having the panels neatly roof integrated might just swing it with those on the 'hate' side as they  do look like they're part of the structure of the house rather than an afterthought.

For me  it's worth the additional expense to have roof integrated panels.

ccbrowning

2nd_time_buyer said:

Apparently they are not as efficient due to a lack of air gap and presumably increased temperature. Although, I am not sure by how much.

Also, if one panel went wrong, how would you get to it and replace it?

We do have 11 GSE mounted now and they look pretty easy to access. If one in the middle had an issue I suppose you'd have to remove others to get to it, but they really look not much more difficult to reach and a neighbour who has the on-roof ones.

ccbrowning

Thanks @Pile_o_stone - they do look a lot smarter. It's just one installer only has 340w JA Solar if we go that route, whilst another has JA 395 available - no idea why they both don't.

I'll stick with GSE! Now to just choose an installer...

ccbrowning

OK, the other issue with GSE is it limits panel choices. I have installers offering 400 and 425 watt 'normal' installs but GSE has had most stopping at 345 and also JA Solar.

Pile_o_stone

ccbrowning said:

OK, the other issue with GSE is it limits panel choices. I have installers offering 400 and 425 watt 'normal' installs but GSE has had most stopping at 345 and also JA Solar.

Is that a restriction with GSE or are these the only panels the installers supply (i.e. because they  have preferred suppliers due to discounts, etc.) ?

ccbrowning

I'm sure it is more the latter, @Pile_o_stone. Although there must be some size limitations or something as I've seen multiple suppliers who offer GSE stop at 395w and all have been using JA solar (but have different options for on-roof).