Are Solar Panels Worth It?
We often hear this question being thrown about because we live in the UK. The truth is, solar panels have come a long way since they were invented in the 1800s. The biggest fear in the UK is the weather. We all know we get lots of rain here, but does that mean solar panels are the wrong choice?
How do solar panels work?
Let’s start off with the important question, how do solar panels generate electricity? We all know it involves the sun, but how do they work?
Solar PV panels, which is what we all think of now when we think of solar panels, generate the energy that the sun gives off. To be more specific, it’s the type of radiation the sun gives off that allows us to turn that radiation into useful energy. Now when the sun’s radiation hits the solar panel the PV cells in the panel begin to heat up. This heat is what can be used to turn it into electricity. We have of course left out some of the technical details but that as a whole is how solar panels work.
How much electricity do they generate in the UK?
Well if the sunshine depends on the electricity we can generate, how good are they in the UK? This is probably the question that burns deep in everyone’s mind who is thinking about getting solar panels.
If you were able to have a 16kw system installed on a south facing roof, then you would be able to generate about 15000kWh of electricity per year. Giving you an incredible saving off your electricity bill. Of course you have to reduce these numbers for roofs that aren’t south facing, but the fact is solar panels are still incredibly useful even with the weather we have in the UK.
Some have reported saving up to 70% on their electricity bills since having solar panels installed. With the current price rise of energy bills there hasn’t really been a better time to look into reducing them long term with sustainable energy.
How do I make the most of solar panels?
If you’re going to make the investment into solar panels the next thing you want to know is, how do you make the most of them?
You might have seen the Smart Export Guarantee, which is a way of selling unused energy back to the grid for a payout, the best bit is you get paid for every unit you sell back to the grid.
Another way homeowners are making better use of their solar panels is through battery storage. If you are not home in the day or use very little electricity, battery storage stores up any unused electricity so you are able to leverage it either when you need it or in the night time for when you get home. It is a great addition to your solar panels and should be something everyone considers if they want to make the most of their panels.
How do I know if solar is right for me?
If you’re wondering how solar can help you, or whether solar is right for your property, get in touch with us today, our friendly experts will assist you with any questions you might have.
You can contact us by visiting this link here.
