Solar panels could help you save and get paid
April 2010
A new photo-voltaic or PV solar panel that generates on average one fifth of the average home owner’s energy bill and is connected up to the grid has been introduced that requires no planning permission to install and has been developed to attract a near-maximum government grant for installation of up to £2,400.
The average cost of installing a solar panel system varies a lot and can be anything from £8,000 to £14,000 depending on the size and type.
However just two of these solar panels, developed by company Smart Solar, will save up to £140 on the average bill and could pay out to the owner £900 per annum under the new feed-in-tariff scheme.
What is the feed-in-tariff scheme?
Feed-in-tariffs, being introduced this month, mean that individuals, businesses and organisations in England, Scotland and Wales will be paid for every unit of energy they generate, even if they use that energy themselves. They will also get money for every unit that is exported back to the grid.
What are the considerations of solar power?
There are three main things to consider for solar installation:
1. Is your roof or wall sunny enough for the panel to generate enough energy?
The solar panel needs to be on a roof or wall that faces within 90 degrees of south and not be covered by shade from trees or buildings. If the solar panel system is in shadow at all, it will generate less energy and therefore be less efficient.
2. Is your roof strong enough to support the panel?
Make sure that your roof can support the weight of the solar panel as they aren’t light at all. If in doubt ask your builder, structural engineer or the solar panel installer.
3. Do you need planning permission?
In England and Scotland, most solar panel installations do not need planning permission as long as they are below a certain size. It’s always worth checking with your local planning office and if you live in a conservation area there will be restrictions you need to adhere to.
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