Solar Power FAQs

It can be overwhelming when you start to research the pros and cons of a solar power solution, there is so much information available. However, it is important to undertake some research and understand the advantages and disadvantages of installing a solar power system.

Advantages

• Significantly reduced electric bills

• Insurance against rising energy costs

• Cheaper power source

• Return on investment

• Environmentally friendly, provides clean renewable energy.

• Energy independence

• No VAT payable until 2027 on solar installations for domestic properties

• Low maintenance costs

• Can increase home value

Disadvantages

• High initial cost

• Not financially viable if you plan to move house within the next few years

• Small amount of pollution during manufacture, transport, and installation.

• The roof of your property may not be suitable for solar panels either due to the tiles, available space, or orientation.

There are currently no grants available, although the Chancellor did abolish VAT on domestic solar installations from April 2022 until April 2027, to encourage homeowners to switch to green energy.

Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is provided by electricity suppliers, where their customers are paid a standard flat rate to sell their excess electricity back to the grid. It is worth exploring the best provider with the highest flat rate, as these can change. You will also need a smart meter to take advantage of a SEG.

Most installations come under permitted development. You will require planning permission if your house is a listed building or in a conservation area.

You will also require planning permission for a ground mount installation.

For further information on planning permission for single and three phase installations please clik here.

You do not need to have a battery for your solar PV panels to work. However, energy storage allows you to use more of the eco-friendly energy you generate in your home rather than exporting it back to the grid.

If you are out most of the day and use most of your electricity in the evenings, it makes sense to store the power generated in the day in a battery for use at night.

You are also able to store cheaper power from the grid at night to store for use the next day.

The inverters, batteries, and workmanship have a 10-year guarantee. The solar panels are guaranteed to be working at least 80% efficiency after 25 years.