(BPT) - Solar panels have been installed on homes since the 1970s, but many homeowners are still reluctant to embrace the technology. If you've considered solar but are still on the fence, you may want to learn how much solar roofs have changed. Going solar may be a lot easier, more affordable and more aesthetically pleasing than you think.
Solar panels have been around a long time
Did you know the first U.S. patents for solar cells were granted in the 1880s? But it wasn't until the 1950s that space-age technology inspired solar panel development for satellites. With improved technology, solar panels began supplying energy to some homes in the 1970s through large, bulky roof panels that were far from easy on the eyes.
As sustainability concerns grew over the next few decades, solar panels became more efficient and somewhat easier to install. Although homeowners appreciated their environmental benefits and potential energy savings, many still saw solar roofs as unappealing. Companies began developing more integrated solar roofing materials, like photovoltaic shingles and tiles, to try to make solar roofs more attractive to homeowners.
Today's solar roofs can blend right in
Fast forward to 2025: Solar roofing has entered a whole new era of efficiency and appearance. With innovative technology like the Jackery Solar Roof, homeowners can now have the best of both worlds: high performing, efficient panels that are almost indistinguishable from a regular roof.
As the world's first XBC curved solar roof tile design, Jackery's solar roof panels can blend in seamlessly with existing architecture in classic roof tile colors like dark obsidian or terracotta. Ultra-thin crystalline silicon solar cells (just 0.13 millimeters) help create elegant tiles offering superior aesthetics combined with high performance. Their unique 150-degree curved shape resembles traditional terracotta roofing tiles, and they achieve over 25% cell conversion efficiency.
These attractive new tiles are quick and easy to install, balancing energy performance with visual appeal. They're also part of a larger solar system that can be integrated with battery storage for a complete home power solution. These are just a few of the reasons the Jackery Solar Roof was named one of TIME Magazine's Best Inventions for 2025.
Additional benefits of going solar with Jackery
Still not sure about solar roofs? You'll also want to know:
- Jackery's rooftop system can generate 170 watts per square meter, with each tile generating 38W.
- The tiles come with a 25-Year Limited Warranty.
- They can handle extreme weather conditions: hail, high winds and temperatures of -40 to 185 degrees Fahrenheit.
The Jackery Solar Roof is compatible with smart energy management systems, as well as Jackery's solar generators and battery systems like the Jackery Explorer 5000 Plus, the premium option for essential home backup.
Reach top efficiency combining solar with advanced storage
The Explorer 5000 Plus is Jackery's most advanced modular storage system designed with the option of off-grid home power supply, with portability in mind.
Starting with a base capacity of 5 kilowatt-hours (kWh), it can scale up to 60 kWh using additional battery packs combined with Jackery's Smart Transfer Switch (STS) for a flexible, powerful energy solution. Designed as a versatile extension to home solar systems, the Explorer 5000 Plus is compatible with standard High-PV Input MC4 connections, from standalone solar modules to full-scale roof installations.
For seamless integration into home power networks, the system can be paired with the optional Jackery Smart Transfer Switch to handle up to 4,000 watts of input power. It delivers a staggering 7,200 watts of output power, supports UPS functionality for uninterrupted emergency power and offers ultra-fast charging options. The system can be fully charged in just 3.5 hours via the power grid or as fast as 102 minutes with hybrid charging.
The Explorer 5000 Plus is equipped with app-based controls, letting you monitor and optimize energy usage in real time. Built with robust LiFePO4 batteries, the system meets the highest safety standards, and is equipped with castor wheels for easy mobility.
Home backup allows you the control and ownership of power generated by a solar system, crucial for power outages, night-time use and energy cost-savings.
An award-winning innovation
In addition to TIME Magazine's recognition, the Solar Roof has earned honors from the Good Design Award 2024, IDEA Certificate 2025, iF Design Award 2025 and the Red Dot Design Award 2024, underscoring Jackery's long-term vision for integrating cutting-edge engineering with sustainable living, highlighting how the company is redefining home energy solutions for a greener future.
These energy solutions are designed to meet the demands of today's homeowners who also want a more eco-conscious lifestyle. Learn more about rooftop solar and energy storage options for your home at Jackery.com.