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\nThis is the bit everyone wants to know, because after all solar panels are a serious investment. You want to know that your hard earned money will be spent wisely. So what can you expect?<\/p>\n
How can you beat the ever increasing energy prices? Solar panels have sprung up all over the country as homeowners look for ways to beat increased electricity prices. With panels on your rooftop you have the opportunity to produce your own electricity throughout the year, whilst earning a tax-free income with a Government-backed scheme.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s true that the earning potential isn\u2019t as high as it once was, but this doesn\u2019t detract from the fact these systems will save you a lot of money over their lifetime.<\/p>\n
Of course, there are other ways to save energy in the home as a way to slash those ever-expensive bills. But first off, let\u2019s look at the energy saving potential of solar panels.
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Solar panels work by absorbing daylight and converting the energy into electricity. This is why they will still work on cloudy and overcast days.<\/p>\n
The electricity produced by the solar system can then be used to power your home\u2019s appliances and lighting. On top of this, you\u2019ll get paid for every unit of electricity generated, whether you use it in the home or not.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re out during the day and therefore not in a position to use the electricity, thankfully it won\u2019t go to waste. Instead excess power is sold straight to the National Grid, providing further financial rewards.<\/p>\n
Essentially you benefit twice from solar panel energy. You can reduce bills by cutting your reliance on the grid, whilst also earning a fixed income from the generation of the same electricity.<\/p>\n
The average cost of solar panels is \u00a37,000 according to the Energy Saving Trust. So whilst they can be on the expensive side, the savings and earnings will pay back installation costs and provide a handsome profit over 20 years.<\/p>\n
Systems can vary in price, and it\u2019ll come down to the size of your home and how many people are in the property. For instance, a large family will likely require a 4kW system, whilst a two bedroom house may need a 2kW system.<\/p>\n
Planning permission isn\u2019t generally an issue either, except for those who live in a Conservation Area or listed building.<\/p>\n
\nThis is the bit everyone wants to know, because after all solar panels are a serious investment. You want to know that your hard earned money will be spent wisely. So what can you expect?<\/p>\n
First off there\u2019s the feed-in tariff, by far the most lucrative incentive for installing solar panels. It\u2019s a Government backed scheme paying out 14.9p\/kWh for the electricity you produce. These rates will decline, but installing now guarantees you\u2019re locked on for 20 years.<\/p>\n
Total earning: \u00a3500 per year<\/strong><\/p>\n Not all the energy generated will be used in your home, so fortunately there\u2019s the safety net of the export tariff. Any electricity unused will be sold straight to the National Grid at 4.5p\/kWh.<\/p>\n Total earning: \u00a3100 per year<\/strong><\/p>\n By generating your own energy you can end your reliance on expensive grid rates. And the cost of gas and electricity looks set to double by 2020 so now\u2019s a good time to be thinking about the bigger picture.<\/p>\n Total saving: \u00a3150 per year*<\/strong><\/p>\n *Savings will increase each year in line with the national price hikes of gas and electricity.<\/p>\n Total savings per year: \u00a3750-\u00a3800<\/strong><\/p>\n In general, most rooftops should be able to accommodate solar panels. The main worry is ensuring your roof is strong enough to support the installation.<\/p>\n Solar panels work best on roofs facing south or southwest and these will typically see higher savings and earnings.<\/p>\n However, solar panels will also work on other facing roofs. The system will last for at least 25 years and many companies will offer long warranties of at least 10 years to cover your solar panels.<\/p>\n What\u2019s vital to know is an MCS accredited company must fit your solar panels. Otherwise you won\u2019t be eligible for the feed-in tariff income.<\/p>\n The National Association of Estate Agents says no, and in fact future potential buyers may view the solar panels as a desirable extra.<\/p>\n As well as creating your own electricity throughout the year, there are some other ways to counter energy increases and cut your bills. Take a look at some of the best:\n
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Do solar panels fit any rooftop?<\/h2>\n
Will the value of my home fall?<\/h2>\n
How else can I save money?<\/h2>\n
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