Blog: Why You Should Install Solar PV: How It Works and the Benefits

The UK has recently seen an enormous rise in the use of renewable energy in recent years, and solar power has become one of the most affordable and environmentally friendly solutions for both homes and businesses. With the help of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, you can generate your own electricity using sunlight. This has several advantages, such as cheaper energy costs, a lower carbon footprint, and greater energy independence.

In this post we will cover why should you consider installing solar PV in your house or your place of business, how does solar PV work, the benefits of solar energy systems, and why solar is currently a wise investment for your future.

What is Solar PV and How Does It Work?

Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems use the photovoltaic effect to turn sunlight into electricity. This is accomplished through the use of semiconductor materials, usually silicon, which, when exposed to sunlight, produce an electric current.

Here’s how a solar PV system works in simple terms:

1. Solar Panels Capture Sunlight: The solar panels, installed on your roof or another sunny area, absorb sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity.
2. Inverter Converts DC to AC: The DC electricity produced by the panels is not suitable for use in most homes. An inverter converts this DC electricity into alternating current (AC), which is used by household appliances.
3. Electricity Distribution: Once the electricity is converted to AC, it’s sent to your electrical panel and distributed throughout your home, powering your lights, appliances, and electronics.
4. Storing or Exporting Excess Energy: If your solar system produces more electricity than you need, the excess can either be stored in batteries (if you have a storage system) or exported back to the grid, earning you money back through smart export guarantee (SEG) schemes.

Why Should You Install Solar PV?

Solar PV is a popular choice for homeowners and businesses in the UK for a number of significant reasons. Here are some advantages to think about making the transition to solar, from cost savings to environmental advantages:

1. Save Money on Your Energy Bills

The UK’s energy prices have been rising steadily, making it more expensive for homeowners and businesses to rely on traditional energy sources. Solar PV systems allow you to generate your own electricity, significantly reducing your reliance on the grid and lowering your monthly energy bills.

According to Ofgem, the average domestic electricity bill in the UK is around £1,750 per year, and this number is expected to rise further. By installing solar panels, you could reduce your energy bills by up to 70%! Depending on the size of your system and your energy usage. With the right setup, your solar system could pay for itself within 6-8 years making it a smart investment.

2. Increase the Value of Your Property

Solar panels not only reduce energy bills but can also increase the market value of your property. A 2021 study by The Sustainable Homes & Buildings Coalition, which is made up of NatWest Group, Worcester Bosch, British Gas, and Shelter, found that adding solar panels can increase your home’s value by up to £10,000 simply by upgrading it up one EPC grade.

As more homebuyers look for energy-efficient properties, installing solar panels can make your home more appealing, particularly in an time when energy costs are high and sustainability is increasingly valued.

3. Eco-Friendly

Solar energy is clean, renewable energy so it is produced with minimal environmental impact. Unlike traditional fossil fuels, solar energy doesn’t emit harmful gases that contribute to climate change. According to The Energy Saving Trust, depending on where you live in the UK, a standard home solar panel system could potentially reduce about your carbon emissions by approx one tonne annually. That’s the equivalent of driving 3,600 miles!

By installing solar panels, you could significantly reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to the UK’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. For each home that installs solar panels, we can collectively save millions of tonnes of carbon emissions every year.

4. Benefit from Government Incentives (SEG)

The UK government offers several financial incentives to encourage the adoption of solar energy. The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is one such scheme that allows you to get paid for any surplus electricity you generate and export to the grid. This means you can earn money from the energy your system produces but doesn’t use.

5. Low Maintenance and Long-Term Durability

Once installed, solar PV systems require very little maintenance. Solar panels have no moving parts and can last up to 25-30 years with minimal upkeep. The main task is to keep them clean (washing off dirt or debris), and most systems come with warranties that last 20-25 years, providing peace of mind about the long-term performance of your investment.

6. Benefit From Tax Incentives

In the UK, homeowners can install solar PV for lower rates by making us of tax incentives. There is a reduced 5% VAT rate on solar installations, instead of the standard 20%, making the systems more affordable. Also, there are various local schemes, such as the ECO4 scheme, and funding options may be available for home energy improvements. Although these are less common for solar PV specifically and are dependent on funding and eligibility.

7. Energy Independence and Reliability

The UK is increasingly vulnerable to energy supply disruptions due to rising global energy demand and external factors like geopolitical tensions. Solar PV systems give you a level of energy independence. Generating your own electricity means you’re less dependent on the grid.

For even more security, solar systems can be paired with battery storage, which allows you to store excess energy produced during the day for use at night or during periods of cloudy weather. This added layer of energy independence helps protect against future energy shortages or price increases.

How Does Solar PV Work In The UK Climate?

You might think solar energy is only viable in sunny climates, but this isn’t the case. The UK receives enough sunlight, even during cloudy days, to make solar PV systems effective. In fact, some of the most efficient solar systems in Europe are located in countries with much less sunshine than the UK, such as Germany and Denmark.

Modern solar panels are highly efficient, and with the right installation, you can generate electricity even in overcast conditions. On average, a typical 4kW solar PV system in the UK can generate 3,400-3,800 kWh of electricity annually.

How Much Does It Cost to Install Solar PV in the UK?

The upfront cost of installing a solar PV system can vary depending on the size of the system and whether you choose to add battery storage. On average, the cost to install solar panels in the UK is between £4,000 and £8,000 for a typical domestic system. You can check our pricing plans here or contact us for a free quote & design today.

However, government incentives, such as the SEG, along with long-term savings on energy bills, can make solar a smart investment that pays for itself over time. Many homeowners see their system pay for itself within 6-8 years. So, after that the electricity generated is essentially free!

Conclusion

Solar PV is a Smart Investment for the Future

Solar PV is more than just an energy-saving option, it’s a long-term investment in your property, your wallet, and the planet. By reducing your reliance on the grid, helping the environment, and benefiting from government incentives, solar energy is a win-win solution for UK homeowners and businesses.

With the rising cost of energy, increasing property value, and the UK’s goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, there has never been a better time to make the switch to solar. If you’re ready to start saving money and contribute to a sustainable future, Contact us today for a FREE quote & design and to see how solar can work for you!