Can solar panels slash your energy bills? Find out more about the benefits of solar energy, then compare prices at SpotDif for the best deals in your area
Imagine getting some of your energy for free while reducing your carbon footprint. Solar power, a low-carbon and 100% renewable energy source, can do just that. By embracing solar, you're not just reducing skyrocketing bills. You're also making big steps towards a more energy-secure and environmentally friendly future.
Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels worldwide use the same technology. PV cells absorb sunlight energy to generate direct current (DC) energy. This energy passes through a converter to become usable alternating current (AC) energy for your home.
With solar panel prices falling and energy prices going through the roof, it’s no wonder solar power has rocketed in popularity in the UK over the last 15 years.
What’s the cost of solar panels in the UK?
Producing your own free electricity certainly sounds appealing. But what’s the cost of running solar panels in the UK?
A 4kW solar system is suitable for most homes and costs approximately £9,000 to £10,000 to supply and install.
You could save anywhere from approximately £440 to £1005 a year on your energy bill, meaning you could break even on your investment in just 10 years or so.
However, it’s important to note that factors such as the suitability of your roof and whether you need a solar battery will also influence the overall solar panel price.
The benefits of solar energy
Installing a home solar panel system is a big financial investment, but rest assured, there are plenty of long-term advantages. Your panels work at peak efficiency when it's sunny, but even on the greyest days, you'll still generate some electricity to power your home. So, it's worth considering all those juicy solar panel benefits to help you make an informed decision.
Produce (and sell) your own electricity.
Soaring energy costs have hit pockets hard in the last few years. But imagine the power of generating your own electricity and knocking up to £350 off your bills with a standard 4kW system. With solar panels, you're not just reducing your carbon footprint. You can take control of your energy costs.
Depending on your energy generation and usage, even a few panels can make a noticeable difference to your energy bills. Plus, you could earn up to £350 a year by selling your excess power back to the grid through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme. Over time, these savings can offset your initial costs, making solar panels a smart and cost-effective choice for many homeowners.
Increase the value of your home.
Some experts believe solar panels can add up to 10% on average to the value of your home. The general view is that homebuyers are willing to pay a ‘green premium’ for homes with energy-saving features like solar panels.
Become more energy-independent
Electricity prices remain stubbornly high, so generating your own power makes more sense than ever. When you add a solar battery to your system, you can rely on your own electricity supply — even during a power cut!
Reduce your environmental impact.
Want to make a real difference in reducing your dependence on fossil fuels? Solar power is low-carbon and sustainable, minimising your environmental impact. By switching to solar panels, you could save one tonne of carbon annually — the equivalent of driving from the UK to Turkey. It's a small step for your home but a giant leap for the environment.
Enjoy low maintenance costs.
Another benefit of solar energy is the low maintenance involved. Once installed, you’ll only need to keep the panels clean and debris-free for best performance.
Are there any solar panel grants available?
Did you know that over 1 million homes in the UK already have solar panels? If you're considering joining them, there are government incentives like the ECO4 scheme that can help you make energy-efficient upgrades, including solar panels, insulation, and heat pumps. These schemes are designed to make the transition to renewable energy more affordable and accessible for homeowners.
Other incentives to go solar include the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), which guarantees a unit price for energy you sell back to the grid. Solar panels will also be zero-VAT rated in the UK until 2027.
The future is solar
One of the best things about modern solar panels is their durability and low maintenance. In recent years, improvements in solar panel construction have seen efficiency soar, with monocrystalline panels achieving 20% or more. And the more efficient your panels, the greater the power output. Maximising the energy you can generate from the get-go is a good idea.
PV solar is a highly reliable technology. With minimal maintenance or professional intervention except for installation and a yearly debris sweep, your panels can last for years. So you'll have greater peace of mind and more time to enjoy the benefits of your investment.
Are you interested in joining the low-cost energy revolution? If solar panels are right for you, a supplier comparison site like SpotDif can compare top UK providers in your area to find deals that could save you thousands on your solar PV installation.