When many people think of a solar roof, they envision something that looks like a space station.

But, that’s no longer the case. Solar has gone subtle.

Homeowners Dave Levinson and Nancy Elam replaced their northwest Washington roof with solar shingles.

Because of the traditional architecture of their home, they didn’t want the solar roof to be a distraction so they turned to a product called sun slates.

Bob Bennett, the solar specialist who installed the roof, said the solar shingles are becoming the rage.

He said that sun slate has a cement composite backing with a small solar panel connected to it.

The 420 solar shingles on Levinson and Elam’s roof will provide half of their electricity. On sunny days, when they aren’t using as much power, their meter will actually run backward and feed onto the grid. Excess power will be sent to the electric company for credit.

The couple admits going solar is a big education.

But, their education is paying off. They learned they could get a grant from the D.C. government that covered one-third of their $70,000 solar roof.

Experts said that the payoff doesn’t stop there. They said that clients have to pay more initially to save money over time.

Solar shingles are good for historical districts.

They are strong and can withstand hailstones and 120 mph winds.

They’re guaranteed for 25 years.

Source: NBC News 4, Washington, DC