Is Solar Panel Installation Worthwhile in the UK
Solar energy alongside wind and water energy is changing the way people in the UK live and helping the planet move towards a greener future. Solar energy is renewable energy which means it is a constant source and can thrive of the sun’s light. It gives the chance for people to generate power in their homes and businesses completely free of charge; this helps to cut down on the reliance of fossil fuels and naturals gases which release CO2 and other greenhouses gases into the atmosphere and contribute to the rising global warming crisis.
The question many people have when looking into the possibility of solar energy is “is solar panel installation worthwhile in the UK?” The short answer to this question is yes and there are many reasons why.
The UK’s climate for receiving sunlight
“Is solar panel installation worthwhile in the UK?” is often asked in reference to the climate in Great Britain. Many people assume that because the UK does not receive as much sunlight as other countries, installing solar panels will not be a worthwhile investment.
The UK receives 60% of the solar energy when in comparison with the Equator. Each square metre of the country will receive in the region of 900- 1200 kWh, when using efficient solar panels this is enough to power at least 50% of your yearly electrical needs and around 33% of your hot water needs. To put it in simpler terms, 60% of the solar energy equates to 1000 power stations of energy.
Solar photovoltaic panels which generate electricity and solar thermal systems with evacuated tubes which generate hot water are designed to generate power from daylight, meaning they remain functional even on overcast days.
Financial benefits of installation in the UK
Many people ask “is solar panel installation worthwhile in the UK?” in regards to the financial incentives on offer. Installation of a solar photovoltaic system in the UK will cost around £8000-£14000 and a solar thermal system will set you back in the region of £3000-£5000, both systems are a big investment and there will need to be proven financial benefits available.
In the case of solar photovoltaic the answer to “is solar panel installation worthwhile in the UK?” is most certainly yes. Not only are you able to save money you are able to earn it at the same time. A typical solar photovoltaic system will save you around £200 on a year family electricity bill; a scheme called the feed-in tariff can earn you approximately £1030 per year for 25 years for your unused electricity. The feed-in tariff scheme is designed to give you payment for any of your unused energy which is sold back to the national grid.
“Is solar panel installation worthwhile in the UK?” in regards to solar thermal does not currently have the incentives of solar photovoltaic. A scheme is being introduced in 2012 known as the Renewable Heat Incentive which will work in the same way as the feed-in tariff. Solar thermal can save you money on water heating bills, with around £70-£90 each year saved.
