Solar Panels : 7 Benefits You Must Know

In a time marked by increasing environmental consciousness and rising energy bills, the spotlight is firmly on how we can increase the renewable energy in our lives. 

Among these, solar panels emerge as beacons of sustainability, offering several benefits, including much more than just reducing your carbon footprint. More than 1.3 million homes in the UK have the technology, which is increasing daily.  

This blog will delve deep into the advantages of solar panels, shedding light on how they contribute to a greener and more sustainable future for generations to come.  

1. Renewable Energy Source: 

Before we go straight into the specifics of the benefits of solar panels, it’s useful to understand how solar panels work. 

Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic (PV) panels, are installed on the outside of your roof, where they can capture sunlight directly. A south facing roof will attract the most solar gain throughout the year, but a roof facing east or west also be suitable for an installation. 

The panels generate direct current (DC) electricity from the sun’s energy. 

An inverter inside the building is used to convert the DC electricity into alternating current (AC), which is the type of electricity used in most households. 

The AC electricity produced by the panels can then power your home’s electrical appliances, lighting, and equipment, reducing your dependence on the national grid. 

Solar panels harness the power of the sun, a virtually infinite and renewable energy source. Unlike fossil fuels that deplete over time, the sun’s energy is inexhaustible.  

By embracing solar power, we can significantly reduce our dependence on non-renewable resources, mitigating the environmental impact associated with fossil fuel energy use. 

2. Reduced Electricity Bills: 

One of the most tangible benefits of installing solar panels is the potential for substantial savings on electricity bills.  

As solar systems generate electricity independently, homeowners and businesses can significantly offset their reliance on the grid. In many cases, surplus energy can even be fed back into the grid using the Smart Export Guarantee, meaning you can earn money for electricity to export to the National Grid. 

In the SEG, energy suppliers with 150,000+ customers offer ‘tariffs’ to households in England, Scotland and Wales. You pay a set rate for each kWh of electricity that you generate but don’t use it yourself.  

It does not have to be the same company that supplies your energy – but it could help you get a better rate if you are already a customer.  

With battery storage, a 4kW solar PV system (around 10 – 12 panels) could potentially take you off the grid in the summertime – reducing your vulnerability to energy price fluctuations, which we have all seen enough of recently!  

Savings do depend on system size, how much electricity you use and when you use it (if you don’t have battery storage).  

3. Environmentally Friendly: 

Solar energy is a clean and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional energy sources. Unlike fossil fuels, solar power generation produces minimal air and water pollution, contributing to a healthier planet. 

The average domestic solar installation in the UK saves just under 1 ton of carbon dioxide every year. Large commercial installations can save even more than that! 

Choosing solar panels means making a conscious decision to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, combat climate change, and preserve ecosystems for future generations. 

Also, solar panels are silent – so there is no noise pollution!  

4. Quick Installation of Solar Panels:

There are many different types of solar panels suitable for most applications. They can be quickly installed to sit on the roof or integrated within the roofline by our MCS-certified team.  

They can be stand-alone or added to and require minimal maintenance. Solar panels are also often deemed acceptable even in conservation areas as ‘permitted development’, so long as they are not visible from main roads. 
 

5. Low Maintenance Costs: 

 Solar panels are renowned for their durability and low maintenance requirements.  

Once installed, they typically require minimal upkeep, with routine cleaning and occasional inspections being the main type of maintenance.  

This translates to long-term cost savings, making solar power an economically viable option for individuals and businesses. 

6. Government Incentives: 

Zero-rated VAT has been applied to the technology in order to increase the uptake of installing energy-saving materials in the UK.  

The announcement by Rishi Sunak was well received and eliminated the 5% VAT rate that existed, reducing the cost of installing solar panels. 

7. Increased Property Value: 

 Investing in a solar array can enhance the value of your property.  

As sustainable living becomes increasingly important, homes and businesses with solar installations are perceived as forward-thinking and environmentally responsible. This added value can be crucial when selling or renting a property, appealing to eco-conscious buyers and tenants. 

Conclusion  

The advantages of solar panels extend far beyond their role as energy generators.  

From reducing electricity bills and environmental impact to enjoying government incentives and increasing property value, solar power emerges as a versatile and sustainable solution for today’s and tomorrow’s challenges. 

As we strive for a greener future, embracing solar technology is crucial to creating a more sustainable and resilient world for future generations.

To determine how much money you could save by switching to green energy, try out our solar calculator!  
 

We’re here to guide you in making the right choice and ensuring your installation meets your needs. Get in touch today!