Frequently Asked Questions
Reasons To Install PV Solar
Save up to 70% on your energy bills – estimated savings vary according to the consumers usage and property type . We have a team that can advise on a system that is right for your needs. Our designers will also advise if it is not financially beneficial for your circumstances.
As well as doing your bit for the environment, investing in solar PV panels can also help you cut the cost of energy. But how do solar panels work, how many do you need, and can you really run a whole house off solar energy alone? To find out, take a look at our comprehensive guide to solar PV panels that explains everything you need to know.
What does solar PV mean?
All Solar Panels are now Mono-crystalline however Panels used to be silicon based and there are several different types that range in cost and efficiency. When it comes to homes, there used to be two main types of solar panel available:
- Polycrystalline solar panels – these panels used to be the most popular option for homeowners. They offer a good balance between cost, efficiency, and maintenance.
- Mono crystalline solar panels – are more efficient and now the cost has considerably lowered these are the top choice for all manufacturers making them cost effective
What size are solar PV panels?
Solar PV panels vary in size depending on the manufacturer. Generally, individual solar panels measure 2m x 1m while energy output ranges from 300W (watts) to 400W per panel.
Individual panels can then be grouped together to create a solar array (or solar PV system) big enough to generate the electricity you need.
How many solar PV panels will I need for my home?
The number of PV panels you need depends on a number of aspects:
- The amount of energy you use (measured in kilowatt hours, kWh).
- How many hours of sunshine or daylight you have where you live.
- As a guide, the average UK home with four family members, uses around 3,800kWh every year which means you’d need enough solar PV panels to generate at least this amount.
- For example, if you chose panels with an output of 400W each, you’d need 10 of these to create a solar array large enough to meet your household needs. If you chose panels with a lower output, you’d need more of them to generate the same amount of energy.
- Bear in mind that not all your energy has to come from your solar panels. If you’ve got limited useable roof space, a smaller solar PV system can be used to offset some of your energy use, which would still help lower bills.
- We are experts in our field & take all the above factors into account to design you a Solar PV system perfect for your requirements.
Are solar panels worth it?
With the recent surge in energy prices, customers are saving up to £2000 per year on their electricity bills. Even more when coupled with battery storage.
Even prior to the energy costs surging in January 2022 research from the Energy Savings Trust, revealed you could save almost £300 on bills depending on where you live and how much energy you normally use. For instance, if you work from home, you’re likely to make greater savings compared to someone who isn’t home much during the day.
You can also earn money by exporting (selling) your unused energy back to the National Grid through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme. You’ll get paid per kilowatt, but that amount will depend on which supplier you sell to. Currently, payment rates vary significantly from 1.5p up to 20p per kilowatt so it’s well worth comparing who’s offering what.
Don’t forget that savings aren’t just financial. The Energy Savings Trust also calculate that the average home using a solar PV array, could save one tonne of carbon every year, so you’ll be helping save the planet too.
How much do solar PV panels cost?
Cost really depends on a host of factors, including the size of system you need, the output of each panel and the amount of energy you want to generate. The type of PV panel you choose, along with how the system is mounted, will also have an effect on what you pay.
With that in mind, it’s best to chat through your available options. That way, you can get a better idea of what solar PV system would suit your home and energy needs.
Receive payments for surplus energy generated from your system – you will receive the Smart ENergy Guarantee SEG payments once your utility company has been informed the system has been installed . The rate of this payment varies between utility companies.
Lower carbon footprint – Harvesting your energy from the sun is recognised as a popular green method for producing energy and the technology is rapidly improving all the time.
Can add value to your property – with the high prices of electricity , it is now an attractive selling point to have Solar, battery storage and EV chargers.
Off set EV and heating etc costs – many people with electric forms of heating , electric vehicles and other forms of high usage electricity are getting Solar/battery storage in order to massively reduce their bills.