People are searching for eco-friendly ways to power their homes. Electricity is more important than ever. Electricity is used for everything, from lighting fixtures and appliances in our homes to computers, laptops and mobiles. Because of this huge demand for electricity, it is imperative that we look into alternatives to fossil fuels in order to produce the power we require.
A solar array is the most green solution you might consider. Photovoltaic cells are used to harness the sun’s power and turn it into electricity. Solar power doesn’t need to be generated in California. Panels can still produce electricity even on cloudy days. The average UK home can produce 50-60% of its electricity if solar panels are properly used.
Although the cost of installing solar panels is a major concern, they are still an affordable and great investment. Due to the steady decline in solar power prices over recent years, the economics of solar power have changed. The solar panel cost has fallen by half over the last decade due to increased demand and new technology.
Because solar panel companies UK offer homeowners an eco-friendly and economical solution to their energy consumption, they are increasingly popular. Solar panels can provide a reliable return on investment, and they require little maintenance.
Installing solar panels is currently very affordable
The cost of solar panels has dropped significantly in the last few years. A typical solar panel system installation costs between PS5,000 to PS8,000, and it is becoming cheaper. The cost of installing solar panels has dropped 70% in recent years. According to government data, 4kW of solar panels installed in the first three months of 2020 were already PS288 less than in 2019. It could take between 15 and 26 year to recover your home’s costs depending on where you live and how much electricity you use.
Utility bills can be reduced by making savings
As sunlight is always free, solar energy is also free. To reduce your electricity bills, you can make use of the electricity generated by your solar panels. The size of your system, how much electricity you use and whether you’re home during the day will all impact the amount you save. It will take you less time to pay back your initial investment. This will vary depending on where you live. Saving money on electricity bills is as simple as utilizing the solar power at the right times. To save the most money, it is a good idea for appliances to be run when it is light outside. Energy Saving Trust estimates that a 4kWp system will reduce your utility bills by between PS90/year to PS240/year. kWp stands for Kilowatt Peak, which is how panels produce power.
The cost of domestic solar electricity currently averages 8p per kWh. This is much lower than the average 16p domestic import cost from grid. The cost of domestic solar electricity has increased an average 4.75% per year over the last decade. This fact alone will make solar PV installation very worthwhile. You will be able to protect yourself from future increases in import power costs.
You get paid for excess energy that you produce
In January 2020, the government introduced a new scheme called the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). This program pays homeowners who install solar panels. All major energy providers in England and Wales that have at least 150,000 customers must pay homeowners for renewable electricity exported to the grid. This is electricity that you don’t use but generate and then send back to the National Grid for other homes or businesses. To be eligible for the SEG, your solar panel system must have a capacity of 5MW or less. Your solar PV system and installation must also be MCS-acccredited. MCS, also known as the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), is a scheme that ensures quality in microgeneration technologies. MCS-accredited technology is of high quality and will work safely and efficiently. To receive the SEG, you will also require a smart meter capable of measuring how much solar power you are exporting to the grid.
The tariffs offered by energy suppliers pay a fixed rate per kWh of exported energy. You can shop around for the best rates as each supplier will vary in what you get. Current rates range from 1.5p to 11.0p perkWh. A 4kWp solar panel system can make approximately PS340 annually depending on your financial situation. This will help you to recoup your initial investment. You don’t have to feel like your electricity is being wasted. SEG rates will gradually rise as more energy companies compete.
Carbon emissions can be reduced
Solar panels are a great way of reducing your carbon footprint. Because solar energy can be replenished, unlike fossil fuels that are finite, it is natural and renewable. Solar is cleaner than non-renewable fossil energy like oil and coal, and doesn’t produce harmful pollutants, greenhouse gases, or carbon dioxide. To generate electricity, solar panels only use the natural renewable energy from the sun. Energy Saving Trust estimates that a home with a solar PV system could reduce carbon emissions by between 1.3 and 1.6 tonnes annually depending on where it is located.
Solar energy is a way to create a cleaner environment. This is good for both our health as well as the environment. Installing a solar panel system will make your home more efficient and eco-friendly.
Reliable energy sources are important
Installing a solar home system will allow you to no longer rely on old power sources which can prove unreliable. The non-renewable energy sources are limited and will eventually run dry. Solar energy will not run out so you can rest assured.
It is not necessary to do much maintenance
Solar panels for homes are very easy to maintain. Solar panels are extremely durable and can last for many years without needing to be maintained. This makes them less trouble for homeowners. It is important to keep the solar panels’ surface clean and clear of trees. While the inverter may need to be replaced after 20 years, solar panels can last for 20+ years without any maintenance. You shouldn’t need to worry about maintaining your solar system if it has been well-designed and installed properly. There are always things that could go wrong. Your warranty should cover you for at least 20 years.
You may be eligible for buildings insurance if the panels are damaged by an unexpected event, such as a storm. Before you install solar panels, make sure to check your insurance.
Planning permission shouldn’t be required
You will most likely not require planning permission to install solar PV systems. A few exceptions are listed below: If your property is in a conservation zone or has a flat roof.
Before you start your solar project, your local council might require approval.
According to the Government’s Planning Portal, panels in England and Wales are likely to be permitted development.
Home solar systems can be a good investment, considering the above benefits. Solar is financially sound, despite the fact that there are no government subsidies. As long as you use less than 50% of your solar energy on site and have a reasonable choice in tariffs, solar can make financial sense. You will save more money the more solar energy you have on site. Keep in mind, however, that grid electricity costs are constantly increasing. Last but not least, I want to emphasize the importance of finding a trustworthy and reliable service provider who can install and maintain your home solar system.