A Step-by-Step Overview of Solar Panel Installation in the UK

Solar panel installation in the UK has been increasing significantly. By the end of June 2022, 1,178,241 installations of PV systems with an output of 14.0 GW have been observed in the UK. This is 2.4% more than what was observed in June 2021.Over 5000 PV schemes have been installed every month in the UK since November 2021. Of the total number of installations recorder until June 2022, 79% were residential PV systems. Read on to know more specifics about solar panel installations in the UK by Spectra Solar.

Government schemes related to PV systems

The government of UK has introduced three main schemes related to Solar Panel Installations in the UK. The first one of the Feed-In-Tariff (FIT), by which those getting solar panels installed would be eligible for government grants. This Tariff was introduced in the year 2010 to encourage homeowners to switch to renewable energy, and has been discontinued since 2019 for new users. After the FIT, the government introduced the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme in 2020, whereby surplus electricity can be sold back to the grid by PV system owners. Energy suppliers that have over 150,000 customers are required to offer tariffs on the electricity sold to them under the SEG. The VAT reduction scheme is the other government scheme related to solar panels, that cuts down costs of panels significantly. Additionally, those over 60 years, or on disability benefits can claim further deductions on the price of solar panels through government websites.

Determining the number of solar panels required

Once you make the switch from paid energy services to clean solar energy, the next step is to determine how many panels you will need to have in your PV system. On an average, a 4kW system requires about 16 solar panels and a 5kW system requires 20 solar panels, each with a 250W output. Primarily, the number of panels required in a PV system would depend on the current electricity consumption, the energy goals of the household, the roof capacity, and the sunshine hours in the locality, amongst other factors. In addition to carrying out solar panel installations in the UK, Spectra Solar experts will also help you determine for yourself exactly how many panels your home would require and why.

The appliances that solar panels can power

Taking into account the average climate across the UK, 1kW panels generate around 700 to 900 units (kWh) of electricity annually. This energy can be used to power home appliances like TV, fridge, freezer, lights, router, etc. Any surplus energy that is generated can be sold back to the grid, or stored in batteries to power the appliances when the sun is down or during periods of overcast.

Factors that Affect PV System Efficiency

Numerous factors affect the efficiency of Affordable Solar PV Panels. Ideally, PV cells should be positioned such that they are exposed to sunlight from 9AM to 3PM. According to research conducted by Stanford University, a 34° roof tilt angle is optimal for the best performance of PV cells in the UK. In addition to the right positioning, Solar Panel Installation in the UK is also important to ensure that the panels used are suited to the roof of your house. For instance, a 4kW system would approximately weigh around 280kgs and would not be the right fit for slate and wooden roofs. It is also important to keep in mind that there should be ample space around the panels for efficient functioning. Spectra Solar’s team of professionals also carry out regular maintenance and upgradation services to ensure that your PV systems continue to function to their maximum capacity.

The benefits of solar panel installations

Solar panel prices have reduced by 60% in the past decade as new technologies that make PV cell components cost-efficient are being discovered. In fact, by investing in affordable solar PV panels that have a lifespan of over 20 years, you can enjoy clean, emission-free energy all year long. In addition to cutting down costs, solar panels can also be a source of earnings. Surplus energy generated by the panels can be sold to energy suppliers. Having a solar powered residential property also increases the market value of the property because of its capacity to simultaneously cut costs and generate earnings. Last but not the least, PV systems are a great way to reduce the Carbon footprint of your home, making it the right choice in the battle against global warming. Get in touch with Spectra Solar for more details.