As the UK faces rising energy costs and the urgent need to cut carbon emissions, homeowners and developers are searching for smarter, more sustainable building solutions. Solar roof tiles in the UK are no longer an unobtainable, expensive possibility; they’re a practical, increasingly popular way to generate clean energy without compromising the look of your home.
Leading this shift is eQube, Metrotile’s innovative integrated solar tile system. Unlike bulky, retro-fit solar panels, eQube has been engineered to combine sleek design with powerful performance, fitting seamlessly into the roofline through our proven Qube lightweight metal roof tile profile.
For those seeking photovoltaic roof tiles that reduce energy bills, lower carbon output, and lessen reliance on the grid, all while enhancing, not spoiling, the appearance of your property — eQube is the smarter, future-ready solution you’ve been waiting for.
Table Of Contents:
- The Rise of Solar Tiles for Roofs in the UK
- What are Integrated Solar Panels?
- eQube: The Smart Way to Power Your Roof
- Earning Savings and Long-Term Value
- Photovoltaic Roof Tiles: Sleek, Sustainable & Smart
- How much do Solar Roof Tiles Cost in the UK?
- Ready to Future Proof your Roof?
The Rise of Solar Tiles for Roofs in the UK
In recent years, solar tiles for roof installations have gained traction across the UK; driven by a mix of rising energy prices, improved solar technology, and updated building regulations.
Did you know? In England, almost all new homes built from 2025 onward must meet Future Homes Standard requirements, which mandates renewable energy sources on new builds such as Solar Panels or Heat Pumps! These regulations hope to dramatically lower carbon emissions and greater improve energy efficiency. This shift is one of the key reasons solar tiles in the UK are now considered a must-have in both residential and commercial developments.
Unlike traditional panels, which are bolted onto the existing roof tiles, integratedsolar panel tiles like eQube become part of the roof structure itself; offering a clean, low-profile finish that’s both architecturally elegant and highly efficient.
What Are Integrated Solar Panels?
Integrated solar panels are solar cells built directly into roofing tiles. Instead of mounting solar panels on brackets above your existing roof, you install solar energy generation into the roof itself.
“Metrotile’s eQube tile was designed by us to offer a fully integrated solar solution that installs in-line with our Qube lightweight tiles, allowing for an alternative, innovative solar tile option for homeowners and roof contractors alike to speed up install times to meet demand and save on costs” – David Padmore, Sales Director, Metrotile UK LTD.
Key benefits of integrated solar roof systems like eQube:
- Streamlined appearance — ideal for planning-sensitive areas.
- Better wind resistance and reduced maintenance.
- High energy yield from monocrystalline photovoltaic (PV) technology.
- Easier to install alongside new or replacement roofs.
- Compatibility with inverters, battery packs, and smart home systems.
And here’s where it gets even better…
Because the eQube system matches the exact profile of the Metrotile Qube tile, installers don’t need to cut, adapt, or modify the roof design — reducing time on site and eliminating visual compromises.
eQube: The Smart Way to Power Your Roof
The eQube solar tile isn’t just another solar product. It’s a carefully engineered roofing solution, created by Metrotile, the UK’s leading provider of lightweight metal roofing systems.
Each eQube tile produces 67 watts of clean, renewable energy and fits seamlessly alongside standard Qube tiles, requiring only 25m2 of roof space to fully power the average UK home .1. Whether you’re retrofitting an existing property or designing a new one, eQube lets you build an integrated solar roof that’s attractive, reliable, and future-proofed.
Why choose eQube?
- Designed and manufactured to suit UK building regulations and housing climate.
- Almost three times lighter than traditional solar panels, weighing in at only 8kg/m2!
- Durable, coated steel casing for long lifespan and protection.
- Perfect for modular, residential, and commercial buildings.
- Plug & play system for easy installation and instant drawing of energy.
- Supported by Metrotile’s 5-star customer service and technical support.
Energy Savings and Long-Term Value
With the UK grid under pressure, causing energy costs to fluctuate; 40% of UK adults now struggle to pay energy bills .2, solar roofing offers real financial and environmental returns.
A typical eQube installation can generate a significant portion of a household’s electricity needs. Combined with an inverter and battery storage, homeowners can reduce their reliance on the grid, becoming self-sustained and saving long-term cost. And unlike traditional panels, eQube’s integrated design means you don’t sacrifice kerb appeal or face common issues like pigeons nesting in the heat under raised solar panels – which in turn often leave droppings all over the panels, requiring more maintenance costs to clean them!
Metrotile eQube has played a key role in pushing the United Kingdom towards net-zero carbon efficiency, with the tile utilised as part of the Vistry Innovation Centre, as the integrated solar roof option of the future. The Head of Technical Innovation for Vistry Group, Jack Brayshaw, stated “We are proud to share our progressive facility showcasing these innovative technologies. This centre is part of Vistry’s roadmap to Net Zero and this ambition is thriving as we keep moving on our journey”.
Photovoltaic Roof Tiles: Sleek, Sustainable, and Smart
As more property developers, architects, and homeowners prioritise sustainability, photovoltaic roof tiles are quickly becoming the gold standard in renewable roofing technology.
Here’s why eQube is one of the most effective photovoltaic tiles on the UK market:
- Monocrystalline PV cells ensure high-efficiency output.
- Fully integrated into a proven, lightweight metal tile profile.
- Fast install with no additional fixings or mounting frames.
- Ideal, low-weight bearing solution for low-pitched roofs and can be installed up to vertical.
Whether you’re building a modular home, planning an extension, or upgrading an existing roof, solar roof tiles in the UK like eQube deliver a balance of performance, design, and sustainability that few systems can match.
How Much Do Solar Roof Tiles Cost in the UK?
You might be wondering about solar roof tiles UK prices. The average materials cost for a 4kwh solar panel system in the UK is between £5000-£6000, with the common payback on investment through energy savings being 8-10 years .3. While integrated systems can cost more upfront than bolt-on panels, these figures don’t account for the installation or maintenance costs of traditional PV systems; the long-term cost-saving advantages of an eQube installation are clear:
- No need for separate panel installation.
- No raised panel frames for birds to nest under.
- Greater weather resistance, particularly in high-wind areas.
- Increased home resale value due to aesthetics and sustainability.
- Self-cleaning panels meaning lower to no maintenance requirements.
Plus, as solar uptake grows, solar panel roof tiles UK costs continue to fall. With eQube, you’re investing in both a high-quality roof and a power-generating system, often with better payback over time than standalone PV.
For a tailored quote based on your roof size and energy needs, contact our team or request a call-back from one of our approved installers.
Conclusion: Ready to Future-Proof Your Roof?
Whether you’re in a city, a village, or a greenfield development, solar tiles for roof UK homes are no longer a luxury; they’re the smart, sustainable choice. And with Metrotile’s eQube integrated solar roof, you get a high-performance solar solution with no compromise on appearance or quality.
From design to delivery, Metrotile supports you with expert advice, trusted installation partners, and a commitment to roofing that works harder for your home and the planet.
Future-proof your roof with Metrotile eQube – Where sustainability meets style.
