Why use Solar Power Comparisons?

Solar panels typically have a lifetime of 25-30 years, although you may need to replace the inverter (the device that converts the DC power output of your solar panels into AC power that you can use in your home and feed it into the grid) before the end of the solar panel lifetime.

Although they don’t generally require much maintenance, other than keeping them free from leaves and other debris, it’s a good idea to get them checked regularly by a professional to keep them in tip top shape.

Grid-connected home solar panels work alongside your local utility grid to make sure you’re never without power. If your panels aren’t producing enough electricity for your home, the shortfall will be made up by electricity from the grid. If on the other hand your home solar panels produce more electricity than you need, it can be sold back to the national grid for another home to use.

Stand-alone home solar panels charge a battery instead and store the energy until you need to use it. Stand-alone PV panels are useful for areas that aren’t connected to the grid, but they can be more expensive.

In general, if you live in England, Scotland or Wales you won’t need to apply for planning permission to install solar panels, unless you live in a conservation area or a national park or the solar panels protrude more than 200mm from your roof. If in doubt, it’s best to check with your local planning office for clarity and guidance.

You’ll need to register your PV solar system with your local distribution network operator. This is the company that’s responsible for providing electricity to your home. They’ll normally register your home PV system for you.

Because installing solar panels changes the structure of your home, it’s always a good idea to get in touch with your insurance provider and tell them about your plans before you start the installation. You may need to add on extra cover for your panels.

Invest in savings with solar power
If you can afford the up-front costs of solar panels for your home, they could pay for themselves over time. A standard 4kW solar panel system costs around £6,000 and in perfect conditions could cover all of your domestic electricity demand..

TOP TIP When it comes to putting up your solar panels, in the vast majority of cases you will need to get in touch with solar panel installers. You can find a list of qualified solar panel installers on the MCS website.
Get paid for excess energy you generate
Nothing comes for free, right? Well that's only partially true when it comes to free solar panels.

In January 2020, the government introduced the new Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), which encourages energy suppliers to pay customers for solar energy they generate. So as well as cutting your energy bills, you could even earn money from your solar panels.

TOP TIP There are two types of commonly available solar panels for home: photovoltaic (PV) panels and thermal panels. The latter are used only to heat water and are not as popular. Solar PV panels convert energy from the sun into electricity.

Under the government-backed Feed-In Tariff scheme, you can earn money for every unit contributed back to the National Grid. The scheme closed to new applicants in 2019, but if you already have a Feed In Tariff you should continue to receive payments.

No. You won't notice any difference. If the PV panels aren't producing enough electricity, you'll just use electricity from the Grid instead. Solar energy is unlikely to fulfill all of your energy needs, but it can make a significant contribution.

There are now many companies which install PV solar panels in different areas of the UK. Contact us for more information.