I wouldn’t recommend solar roof tiles for these reasons:
- Replacing solar panels once they lose their zing requires replacing the whole roof, as opposed to simply replacing external solar panels.
- Servicing and repairs require messing with your roof, and must always be done one site.
- They have a shorter lifespan than clay tiles.
- They lose value as more powerful solar panels become available.
- They produce much less power per square meter than stand-alone solar panel units because of power lost in transmission.
Their heart’s in the right place, but the execution is still a long way off. Might get there someday.