If you’re thinking of buying solar panelsfor your home, you’re likely be interested in knowing how much you’ll be spending and what you can save. Solar panels are a lot more simple than you believe to install. When they’re in place, you’ll be able to benefit from solar energy! We’re here to help learn everything you need to be aware of regarding the cost and installation.
How much do solar panels UK cost? Based on the Money Saving Expert’s estimates:
The cost of a solar system (including the installation) is approximately £6,500.
With a 4-kWp system you could reduce between £210 and £514/year on your electricity bills (based on the Government Energy Prices for October 2022. Price Unit rates of the Guarantee to power).
Your energy costs will be reduced by using solar panels.
Begin your solar journey today
Do you want to save money on your energy bills and be more energy-efficient? Why not put your money into a solar panel system to begin generating the energy you need?
Why should we make use of solar energy?
Solar energy is growing in popularity across the UK and is becoming more affordable and simpler to create than ever.
Like you, many people are searching for new ways to become energy efficient by using renewable energy sources to aid in protecting the environment.
Benefits of solar energy
- Renewable
Solar energy is one of the most efficient forms of sustainable energy due to the steady amount of sun the world receives. The constantly evolving technologies in development will enable the use of this energy source in more efficient way, more cost-effective and efficient methods, making solar energy the fastest-growing alternative energy resource.
- Clean
Carbon footprint for solar PV (photovoltaic) panel is very small, and as the components used are increasingly recycled and reused, the footprint continues to shrink.
- Save money
The cost of electricity could drop considerably due to the energy you generate and using, but not purchasing it from your provider.
- No permit required
Since solar panels are considered permitted development, you typically don’t require a permit in order to place solar panels in your home. There are some limitations that you should keep in mind prior to installing.
- Low maintenance
Once they are installed solar panels require low maintenance. They’re usually set at an angles that allow rain to flow freely to wash dust and dirt away. If you can keep them from getting impervious to debris, your solar panels will last for more than 25 years, with minimal loss in performance.
- Independence
The investment in a solar-powered system can make your less dependent upon your National Grid for your electricity. Since it generates energy it is possible to enjoy lower cost power all day. If you decide to make the investment in batteries, you can continue to use solar power after the sun has set.
- Efficient
You’ll contribute in a much more effective means to generate energy. Transferring energy from power stations through vast networks to your home causes energy loss. If your power source is directly from your rooftop it reduces the risk of losing energy which means that less energy is used up.
- Make use of your own power in the evening after dark
Consider investing in a home solar battery and you’ll have your own power both at night and during the day.
- Value of the property
Solar panels can be a great investments for your home. The current developments in the market for energy indicate that a house that has solar panels (if properly promoted by focusing on energy savings and tariffs) may be able to fetch a higher cost in the near future than a home that is not.
How do solar panels function?
A solar photovoltaic (PV) system changes sunlight into electricity. Sunlight is captured by solar panels, and transformed into usable electricity via the inverter. The electricity can then be utilized to power appliances in your home in a direct manner as well as stored inside a storage device for use in the future when the sun doesn’t shine. If the battery is not used or stored, excess power is returned towards the grid.
Solar energy information prior to install
Are you thinking about solar? Here’s what you should be aware of prior to purchasing.
- You can still live in a cloudy Britain and still make use of solar panels
The way solar panels function for solar power in UK is the same as in other countries. It is not necessary to reside in a region where there is plenty of sunshine to generate solar energy. Solar panels can work through clouds. However, the more sun you receive the more energy you’ll be able to generate.
- You will require a south-facing roof
Ideally, you should have a south-facing or a south-west-facing roof. Modern technology means that most houses can be benefited from solar PV. Roofs facing north aren’t suitable.
- Planning permission is not required.
The good news is that the majority of homes don’t require approval for solar panels. If you do have flat roof or are located in an area of conservation, it is advisable to speak with your local authority before proceeding.
- You can switch providers
Of course, you’re allowed to switch providers with solar panels. Whatever energy provider you’re with at the time you have the panels installed, you are able to remain in the same company.
- You might want to think about the smart export Guarantee (SEG) price
After you have installed solar panels, you could be eligible to enroll in an SEG tariff. SEG lets you earn money from solar energy that you don’t actually use. You’ll earn a certain amount for every amount (or the kWh) of electricity you sell back to grid.
Solar panels for fitting What you should be aware of
Are you planning to go solar? That’s awesome! Take a look at the following tips prior to buying.
Installing solar: where do I locate a qualified installer
It’s essential that you select an accredited installation service since they’ll be competent to guide you through the rules and regulations. It is recommended to speak with some installers and obtain their estimates. They will usually give you an estimate of cost on the phone before scheduling an inspection of your home. Find out how long the job will take and what their warranty or guarantee of their work. If they offer guarantees that are insured, it will save you from any unpleasant surprises in the future. If you’re hoping to be eligible to be eligible for Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) then your system must be installed by an Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) certified installer.
Prior to the time your fresh solar panel is put in place
Before beginning installing the system, the installer will have to conduct an inspection of the property. This is an essential element to the setup process and ensures you receive the right design and system that’s appropriate for your home. The surveyor will assess your property and walk you through the shading analysis (to determine the amount of shading coming from nearby trees or other objects) to get the most accurate projections of figures. They should provide you with written, fixed cost estimate that includes projections of the results of the system. There is no obligation to anything at the time of the meeting. Ideally, you should get several written quotes from different installers . Three is a great number.
It is also worth considering the possibility of pigeon-proofing solar panels. It is simpler and less expensive to install rather than later on. It is best to talk to your installer for clarification prior to installing the solar panels.
Most efficient solar panels.
There are two kinds of solar panel: thermal and PV. The most popular type is called photovoltaic solar panels (PV) These absorb sunlight’s energy and transform to electricity. They can run your appliances at home. Another kind of solar panel is the solar thermal. They allow the heating of hot water to heat your residence. Many homes will have solar PV installed since we are prone to using more electricity , and this is the best method to reduce costs.
How do you use your solar panels following installation
Once the solar panels have been installed, you can reap the advantages! You’ll be producing clean energy and also reducing your energy costs. However, you’ll be responsible for energy you consume that do not generate yourself. Consider setting your appliances to run during the during the day to get the most from your equipment. It is also possible to think about buying battery storage or other intelligent gadgets that allow you to maximize your energy source.
Maintaining your PV solar system
Solar PV panels will last at the very least for 25 years with the occasional clean.
The inverter should last for about 10 years. If your inverter is in need of replacement, you may want to replace it with the solar battery which includes an inverter.