Solar panels have become a very popular installation in the UK and have the potential to generate electricity for your home throughout the year. Essentially, solar panels help to end your reliance on national grid energy, which is continually rising is price.
In fact, energy bills have risen 160% in the last decade, so generating your own power is certainly a welcome proposition.
To give you a better idea on the installation of solar panels, watch the video below which details the install from start to finish. The video answers many common questions too.
Are solar panels suitable for my home?
If you have a south facing rooftop with little or no shading throughout the day then it’s certainly worthwhile thinking about solar PV. They can be installed on rooftops facing elsewhere too and will still provide you with power all year round.
Effectively, the efficiency of the panels will be dependent on:
- Your roof’s pitch
- Which direction your roof is facing
What size solar system do I need?
This will all come down to the space you have available on your roof and the amount of electricity you need. Don’t buy a system too large for your needs.
Of course, the surveyor will get a good idea of the size most suitable for you and typically a 3.5kW system will cost in the region of £7,000.
Do I need planning permission for solar panels?
Planning permission is generally not needed unless you live in a conservation area or in a listed building. In England solar PV is permitted development and Scottish, Welsh and Irish Governments are considering moving to the same stance.
Are there any maintenance costs for solar panels?
Solar PV are known to be maintenance-free, which is yet another benefit to having them installed. Once fitted on your rooftop they should operate for 25 years and more with no on-going costs. The only thing that will need replacing at some stage is the inverter, costing around £1,000. This will only need replacing once in a 25-year period though.
How can I find a reputable solar PV company?
The majority of advice you’ll find suggests speaking with three or four companies. By doing this you’ll be able to get the best price and choose a company you’re ultimately happy with.
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]