It is possible to buy DIY solar energy kits. Some manufacturers will customise them to your particular requirements.
But it is important to remember the following with your solar panel installation:
- Anyone installing a kit needs good plumbing and building skills, this isn’t the kind of project to have your first stab at DIY.
- On the cash side – the terms of a grant require that the system is installed by an accredited installer, therefore DIY systems do not comply. It is worth comparing the savings to be made from DIY kits against the amount that could be obtained through a grant.
- On the practical side – panels can be heavy. You need expert advice on whether your roof is capable of bearing the extra weight of the solar panel installation, especially when panels are fitted over existing tiles. Having to replace sections of a roof and make good any damage done is not a pleasant thought.
- Water heating systems need to be checked out to ensure that they are compatible for a solar panel installation. For example, a combination boiler is often incompatible as it doesn’t use a storage tank, and works on a high pressure system – whereas most solar water heating systems are low pressure.
MCS accredited installers
The feed-in tariff scheme linked with solar panels is one of the significant reasons solar panels have become so important. The feed-in tariff is a Government backed incentive paying out for every unit of electricity produced.
The catch is though, a Microgeneration Certification Scheme registered installer must complete the work for you to qualify.
With the scheme:
- Receive a rate of 15.44p/kWh over 20 years for each unit generated
- This will see you earning around £600 a year
- And totals £12,000 for the 20-year scheme
- On top of this you’ll also be reducing your energy bills
Essentially, if you’re considering a solar panel installation, the best way to make a serious return on investment is by hiring a MCS accredited installer for the work.
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]