Everything You Need to Know About Installing Solar Panels.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Types of Solar Panels
We're dedicated to helping UK homeowners navigate the world of solar power. With increasing energy costs and a growing emphasis on sustainability, more people are considering solar panels for their homes.
This guide will provide you with essential information, practical advice, and resources to help you make an informed decision about installing solar panels.
Types of Solar Panels.
● Photovoltaic (PV) Solar Panels
Function: PV panels convert sunlight directly into electricity using semiconductors.
Best For: Homes with high electricity consumption.
Pros:
Reduces electricity bills.
Can generate electricity even on cloudy days.
Excess electricity can be sold back to the grid (via feed-in tariffs).
Cons:
Initial installation cost can be high.
Efficiency can be reduced by shading and orientation issues.
● Solar Thermal Panels
Function: Solar thermal panels use sunlight to heat water, which can then be used for domestic hot water or space heating.
Best For: Homes with high hot water usage.
Pros:
Highly efficient for water heating.
Lower installation costs compared to PV panels.
Reduced reliance on gas or electric water heating.
Cons:
Only useful for water heating, not electricity.
Requires a hot water storage system.
Is Your Home Suitable for Solar Panels?
Considerations when assessing your home’s suitability for solar.
● Roof Orientation:
South-facing roofs are ideal. East or west-facing roofs can also work but with reduced efficiency.
● Roof Angle:
A tilt angle between 30-40 degrees is optimal.
● Shading:
Ensure your roof is not heavily shaded by trees, buildings, or other obstructions.
● Roof Condition:
Your roof should be in good condition to support the weight of solar panels.
● Space Availability:
Ensure there is enough space to install a sufficient number of panels to meet your energy needs.
Conducting a Solar Feasibility Study
● Professional Assessment:
Hire a professional to assess your roof and provide a detailed report on potential solar panel performance.
● Energy Usage Audit:
Analise your current energy usage to determine how many panels you need.
Financial Considerations & Government Support
Purchase Cost vs. Payback Time
● Installation Costs:
The average cost of installing solar PV panels in the UK is between £4,000 to £6,000 for a typical 4kWp system.
● Payback Time:
Depending on your energy usage, savings on electricity bills, and any income from SEG, the payback period can range from 10 to 15 years.
● Long-Term Savings:
Over a 25-year lifespan, you could save between £6,000 to £17,000, considering the reduction in energy bills and SEG payments.
Leverage Government Incentives
● Smart Export Guarantee (SEG):
Allows you to sell excess electricity back to the grid. Check with your energy supplier for SEG rates and terms.
● Green Homes Grant:
Although the scheme has closed, other local and regional incentives may be available. Check your local council’s website for more information.
By understanding the differences between PV and thermal panels, assessing your home’s suitability, and leveraging government support, you can make an informed decision that benefits both your wallet and the environment.
Discover everything you need to know about installing solar panels in the UK with our comprehensive guide to the best solar resources available in the UK!
From understanding how to assess your home's suitability, to accessing government support, we've got you covered.
Join us, and start your journey towards a greener and more sustainable future today!
Blue Sky Media LLC is a responsible publisher and by submitting your details you agree to be bound by the
Terms and Conditions,
Cookie Policy and the
Privacy Policy of this site under which we only allow marketing to you in the following sectors
,
Charity,
Financial,
Holidays and Travel,
Insurance,
Legal,
Lifestyle,
Media,
Motoring,
Shopping,
Family & Home and
here's examples of Companies who may use your data.
Please click on the boxes to let us know which methods of communication you are happy for Blue Sky Media LLC to contact you.
Before completing your details it is important to read our
Privacy Policy as this explains how Blue Sky Media LLC's
Legal basis for Processing your data. In the course of our processing we share your data with
Data OD and others who may combine and share the data with companies who may use it for purposes such as ID Verification, ID Protection, preventing fraud, debt collection, tracing and verification purposes and returning assets to you.
If you do not wish for your data to be used this way by then please
Click Here