Are solar panels really worth the money? 

 

What is Solar PV

 

Solar PV (solar photovoltaic) is a type of renewable energy generation system which utilises the sun’s energy to generate electricity. It is a popular form of renewable and can be used in a wide variety of settings, from rooftops to floating solar.

 

How Much is it?

 

This is always a difficult question to firmly answer since the price depends upon the solar brand and the number of panels required.  At Wessex ECOEnergy we tend to split the panels into three classes: 1) mid-tier and 2) high-end (which are the best-performing panels available on the market).

Mid-level systems of 12 panels typically range from £5k to £6k fully installed.  High-ended performance panels of 10 panels range between £6k to £9k. It depends on factors like:

• Roof access and roof covering
• The number of arrays
• Type of mounting system
• Is it s new roof (cheapest install option)
• Or is it retrofitted?

For domestic solar installations – i.e. the solar you would want to install onto your home – we often recommend between 10 – 12 panels.  This is because at this size, the array has the potential to generate enough energy to meet the average UK household energy usage of around 3,500 – 4500 kWh. 

Synthesis: solar PV installations come at a cost.

 

The Benefits

 

Now I have addressed the actual cost of the panels. Let’s address the benefits of solar PV.

 

Future Proofing

• By having solar panels you are reducing your reliance upon grid electricity and installing technology which will be the norm as we move into the future.  Most homes will move to being all electric in the near future. 

 

.Energy Security

• If there is a widespread blackout and if you have also purchased a Tesla Powerwall you need not worry since you are able to power your own home with your own electricity.  And if the blackout continues and the Sun is out you can continue to charge the battery.

 

Hedge Against Rising Energy Costs

• Energy companies are continually changing their prices and at the moment, they are on the rise.  Prices tend to double every 7 years.  By investing in solar you are effectively reducing your cost of energy in the future.  If you send any spare energy to an immersion in your water tank you can enjoy free hot water for many months of the year and reduce the need to fuel your fossil fuel boiler in the warmer months.

 

Pay Back

• Did you know that overtime you will pay back the cost of the solar array as a result of money savings? Before you get too excited I will tell you straight that pay back does not happen overnight! Payback periods can range between 7-14 years. There is variation in payback time since numerous factors can influence the efficiency of panels.  How much you actually utilise is key.

 

Earn Money From Your Solar

• Yes, you can earn money from your solar when you sell your excess to the grid! Though I need to make it clear that selling your energy will not make you a millionaire. Typical tariffs offer around 1.5p to 5.5p per kWh.

 

Reduced Carbon Footprint

•  Did you know that a solar array can help you save around 3 tonnes of CO2?  This is roughly equivalent to having a return flight to San Francisco from London!

 

Wessex ECOEnergy 

 

Based in Dorchester, Dorset, Wessex Eco Energy is an award-winning eco-build, solar, battery, and electric vehicle charger installer with a great deal of experience in the domestic and commercial markets. We help our clients to reduce their impact on the environment and save money in the process. 

If you are interested in solar energy contact Wessex ECOEnergy on: 01305 250429 

Or, send us an email at: info@wessexecoenergy.com

 

Photo Credit: Future Timeline