From reduced energy bills to a greener footprint, homeowners across the globe are finding more reason than ever to transition towards renewable energy solutions. Here in the UK, generous government grants and schemes have even been implemented to encourage this switch.
Amidst the many energy alternatives on the market, solar power has emerged as a worthy contender as more and more households embrace the sun’s potential to power their properties.
With nearly 12,000 solar panel installations across the country every month, and an investment cost drop of more than 80% over the past decade, there may have never been a more fitting time to transition to solar power.
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What are solar panels?
When discussing solar panels, it is important to clarify that there are two main types of solar systems with two distinct purposes:
1. Photovoltaic solar panels (PV) are used to convert light into electricity.
2. Solar thermal panels are used to convert light into heat.
In the UK, PV solar panels are a popular choice for homeowners transitioning to renewable energy as it allows them to generate electricity for the entire property, whereas solar thermal panels only produce heat.
Solar panels are made up of many solar cells stacked together in an array. Each solar cell is made up of a semiconducting material – usually silicon – which then can absorb light from the sun and convert it into an electrical current to power your home.
PV solar panels can be stand-alone with a rechargeable battery, or connected to the national grid. Often, homeowners prefer to be connected to the grid as it ensures a constant supply of electricity even on days when your solar panels may underperform.
Alternatively, if your solar system produces more energy than you need in a day, the surplus could be sold back to the national grid for an extra profit via the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme! Not only can these systems save you money, but they may even make you some too.
Are solar panels efficient in the UK?
A common misconception among UK homeowners is that our often dreary weather would render solar energy obsolete, but luckily this is not true.
Solar panels don’t even need direct sunlight to work, and are even able to produce considerable energy on cloudy days and in winter months. Solar panels are also much better suited to cooler climates, which helps prevent overheating and extends the lifespan of your investment. As odd as it may seem, UK weather is ideal for solar energy most of the year!
In addition, due to a natural phenomenon called the albedo effect, solar panels function very efficiently in snowy climates. This is because the bright white of snow can reflect more sunlight than other colors, allowing your solar panels to generate more electricity than expected.
Are solar panels worth the investment?
There is no shortage of advantages when it comes to transitioning to solar energy, so we’ve decided to highlight three of the most impressive benefits you could expect.
1. Slash your energy bills considerably.
As solar panels can meet a considerable portion of your household energy needs, you can expect a significant drop in your monthly energy bills from the first month on.
How much you save on your bills will naturally depend on the output and size of the solar panels you opt for, but a typical home can expect to save up to 50-70% on their initial energy bills!
In addition, the UK government’s Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) initiative allows homeowners to sell back unused or surplus energy to the national grid for an extra profit. With the prospect of reduced energy bills and the potential to make extra money, solar panels are very likely to be able to offset their initial investments. From then on, enjoy your free energy!
2. Reduce your carbon footprint.
Undoubtedly, the sun is a truly renewable and unlimited source of energy that we simply cannot run out of. This makes solar panels one of the most popular and reliable sources of renewable energy all across the globe.
Unlike some other sources of renewables, all a household requires is access to the sky and a preferably south-facing view. So long as the sun is in the sky, we have a source of unlimited energy to tap into.
3. Save on maintenance costs.
When compared with other systems, solar panels boast some of the lowest general maintenance costs as they do not contain moving parts, and can be left alone after installation. Additionally, most reliable solar panel manufacturers offer impressive warranties of up to 20-25 years.
The only routine maintenance solar panels generally need is the occasional cleaning to make sure they effectively absorb light, which could even be done by yourself. In any case, professional cleaning companies offer such services for as little as £25-£35.
How can I find trusted installers in my area?
If solar panels have caught your attention and you would like to look into the possibilities for your home, GreenMatch is your one-stop shop for all your solar panel questions and services. In addition to providing thorough articles on solar panel manufacturers, expected investments, and government grants and schemes, GreenMatch is also able to connect you with local professional installers in your area for accurate quote prices.
