Solar shingles...are they a viable option right now?

[joeunderdog]

I'm completely sold on solar for our new house, but my wife is cool to the idea of putting panels on the front-facing (south) roof of a house we just designed in an aesthetically pleasing way. The shingles look fine, but my understanding is that they are nowhere near as efficient (like half) as the panels. Is there a reliable comparison of the cost effectiveness of these options?

[ConcernedCanuk]

1. Regardless of solar costs and efficiency

.
.
.

Keep your wife happy - an old saying:

"A happy wife is a happy life"

Go with that.

I've had solar, intend to again shortly (just bought my first home) - and seen some local systems.

Never seen any solar panel arrays, including my own I would call "aesthetically pleasing".

There are solar panel arrays you can place on the roof itself instead of the shingles,

but they still detract from the symmetrical design of a nice house.

If you can afford it, pay the extra money, live with the decreased output,

enjoy your life, and your wife.

CC

[MADem]

2. These guys think so...of course, they are selling the things!!!!

http://www.dowpowerhouse.com/about/faq.htm

[cally]

3. No

I called some of the manufacturers about 2 years ago and was told they are not viable right now for residential.