Make your home green. With over 1.5 million domestic solar installations in the UK and ever-increasing government schemes and green finance options, more people are investing in solar panels than before.
The UK government has set a legally binding target of reaching net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. To help achieve this, new regulations are being put in place.
The Future Homes Standard 2025 aims at enforcing solar panel installation on all new builds to help meet climate goals and lower household energy costs.
The Department for Energy Security & Net Zero has published the Solar Road Map, which provides an estimate of solar deployment in 2030 versus today.
By up to £500 per year
Boost your home’s energy performance rating.
By up to £1,800
Sell surplus power back to the grid.
Enjoy a strong and predictable Return-On-Investment for your business
Some of the major stumbling blocks for solar are limited knowledge about the process, lack of trusted information about the advantages, finance options and choices available for different types of residences. Read on to learn more about some of the most pressing questions about this revolutionizing renewable energy!
Q: Are solar panels a worthwhile investment for UK homeowners given the less number of sunny days?
A: While their output is reduced during grey weather, particularly in autumn and winter, they still provide enough electricity for significant energy cost savings. According to a government report, in the winter, solar energy falls to an eighth of that of a warm June day. As sun's rays still penetrate clouds, even with particularly dense cloud cover, the panels will still generate electricity.
Q: Do I need planning permission to install solar panels?
A: It's advisable to check with your local planning office for clarification as in some cases restrictions are enforced e.g. listed buildings.
Q: What is the ideal place to install solar panels?
A: For maximum performance, its advised to install the panels on an unshaded, sloping, south-facing roof.
Q: What is the cost of installation?
A: The average household requires a 3.5kWp system that covers between 10 to 20m² of roof surface area, using between six and 12 panels. This would cost around £6,100. This is a rough estimate as deciding factors like size, type of mounting frame, roof accessibility etc play a role.
Q: How long will it take for solar panels to pay for themselves?
A: The overall payback period is 6-11 years, depending on numerous factors.
Q: How do I maintain solar panels?
A: Your solar panel installer will leave details about troubleshooting and basic maintenance. The rain will clean your panels if they're tilted at 15 degrees or more. In case of ground-mounted panels, occasional cleaning might be required.
Q: Can I get financial support?
A: (1) Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) requires energy suppliers to offer efficiency improvements to eligible low-income and vulnerable households. You can visit Ofgem's website to find out more.
(2) Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund will provide funding for social housing landlords. Visit GOV.UK for more information.
(3) Warm Homes: Local Grant will fund eligible local authorities to deliver energy performance upgrades for low-income households living in privately owned homes. This scheme is expected to be delivered from Spring 2025. Visit GOV.UK for more information.
