Did you know that 2013 has been a record breaking year for the UK’s solar industry? In fact, Britain has pulled itself into the top six countries in the world for solar power production over the last 12 months.
And with installation prices for solar panels at their lowest ever, now is the perfect time to invest in your own renewable system. Even though the winter months are looming, installing before January 1 will guarantee better incentives for you over two decades.
Solar panels are rarely far from the media spotlight and this year has been no different. Even IKEA are now offering flat pack systems for your home, and with energy prices on the rise, more homeowners than ever before are expected to turn to renewable sources.
Steve Howard, Chief Sustainability Officer at the Energy Saving Trust said: “In the past few years the prices of solar panels have dropped, so it’s a really good price now. It’s the right time to go for the consumers.”
But why should you consider solar panels for your home?
Solar panels are fitted to your roof and generate electricity by capturing natural daylight throughout the year. This is why they work so efficiently, because despite common misconception, they don’t need direct sunlight.
There is no maintenance involved either and solar panels are seen as a fit and forget technology. Essentially, so long as the panels aren’t in shade they’ll work optimally for 25 years and even more.
But what if I move before 25 years? This is highly likely but you shouldn’t worry about it. In fact, research shows that solar panels are the most desirable non-essential for potential home buyers. This is because of the excellent financial incentives they reward you with.
So what are these incentives?
- Electricity savings
Solar panels use natural daylight to generate electricity so you’ll be using less National Grid energy. As such, you won’t be spending as much on your bills and as prices increase over the years, you’ll make an even greater saving.
- Guaranteed income
The most lucrative incentive for considering solar panels is the feed-in tariff, a Government-backed scheme which pays you for each unit of renewable electricity generated. With the feed-in tariff you stand to earn over £500 a year but with rates set to decrease on January 1 it’s important to lock on and be guaranteed two decades of the higher tariff before then.
- Export energy
The third major financial incentive is the export tariff. Of course, solar panels will be active during the day when you’re likely to be out and about. So whilst you can set appliances to run during this time, not all the electricity you generate will be used. But don’t worry, because excess electricity is sold to the National Grid, ensuring it’s not wasted and providing you with further payments.
Facts & Figures You’ll Love To Share
- [tweetable alt=””]Solar panels are now priced at a record low, providing an excellent return on investment for every buyer.[/tweetable]
- [tweetable alt=””]The feed-in tariff scheme will help homeowners earn over £500 annually with solar panels.[/tweetable]
- [tweetable alt=””]Solar panels will help to reduce your yearly electricity bills by over £100, providing over two decades of savings.[/tweetable]
- [tweetable alt=””]The generous export tariff ensures no electricity is wasted as it’s sold to the National Grid for a set price.[/tweetable]
- [tweetable alt=””]As gas and electricity prices continue to increase year-on-year, solar panels offer a way to guarantee your energy future.[/tweetable]