Renewable solar energy - advantages
Solar PV will keep producing electricity even on a cloudy day
Solar electricity captures the sun's energy using photovoltaic (PV) cells. These cells convert sunlight into electricity which can be used to run appliances and lighting.
Solar PV panels are normally fitted on a south facing part of your buildng usually on the roof but there are other options such as walls or A-frames. The strength or rating of a PV panel is measured in kilowatt peak (kWp) - this is the amount of energy the panel generates in full sunlight.
Benefits of solar energy
- Sell electricity back to the grid - Feed in Tariff (FIT) means an average home can earn £1,000* per year
- Receive guaranteed income - index linked and tax free for 25 years
- Cut energy costs - PV system typically produces 40% of household uses in a year
- Reduce your carbon footprint - savings of around 1200kg of CO2 per year*
Do I need planning permission?
In England and Scotland you don't need planning permission for most home solar electricity systems, as long as they're below a certain size and do not protrude more than 20cm from your roof - but you should check with your local planning officer if your home is a listed building, in a conservation area or in a World Heritage Site. You should also check if your building is subject to any covenants. We can help you with this.
In Wales and Northern Ireland you still need to get planning permission before installing a solar electricity system - though the legislation may soon change. To find out how to apply for permission, contact your local authority.
*Based on a 3kW system installed on a south facing, 45 degree roof with little or no shading and annual solar radiation of 989 kWh/year