Just like the panels on a desktop calculator, a Solar PV (Photovoltiac) System generates electricity from light. Due to the scale of the electricity being generated, these larger panels can obviously only be used outside, but the theory remains the same. In the case of a Solar PV system, enough energy can be generated to power an entire house and more. During daylight, the system will produce excess energy that is also sold back to the national grid for resale to other consumers. At night, when the panels are not generating, electricity can be bought from the grid to ensure an uninterrupted supply. A 2kWh system provides plenty for the majority of households.
Due to recent government legislation, a system owner is paid 41.3p for every unit of electricity that their system generates, even if they use this themselves! 3p on top is paid for any unit sold back to the grid.
How can I benefit?
FREE Daytime Electricity! Saving a minimum £200 each year
EARN £1000 yearly tax free for all energy generated for 25 years from the installation
NO maintenance or other extra costs after installation
Start up cost?
The only potential difficulty is the initial cost to buy and install a system (but it pays off in time - both financially and environmentally)
Systems for residences cost between £7500 and £20000 dependent on size. All pay for themselves within 10 years and continue to provide tax free income for all of the 25 years, provided the system is fitted prior to 31 March 2012.
Green Energy: Solar Thermal System
Solar Thermal Systems are installed to provide domestic hot water.
A residential system costs between £3500 and £12000. Providing as much as 70% of all the hot water, it dramatically reduces household bills.
The government is introducing the RHI payments scheme in April 2011 to pay system owners for any hot water they produce via this method, it will be to be approximately £350-£400 every year.
If you would like to receive more information about how a Solar PV or Solar Thermal system can help you and the environment, please fill in the form on this page and up to three independent specialists will contact you directly to offer help, advice and quotations to suit your property, system and budget size.