Are Solar Panels Worth it in the UK?
You don’t have to live in a place that’s sunny 365 days a year for solar panels to be worth it financially. That’s one of the most common myths around solar installations.
As we explain in this article, the combination of newly developed solar technologies, tariffs and falling prices have made solar systems an inviting proposition for many UK residents.
In this article, you will learn why solar panels are worth it because they:
- Save you money on bills
- Help you look towards a greener future
- Increase the value of your home
By installing solar panels you can…
Save money on bills
Various studies suggest that homeowners who install solar panels can expect to save around £30,000 on their electricity bills over 30 years (the expected lifetime of PV solar panels).
The following figures, calculated using 250W panels and the average UK household energy consumption, outline how much you could save:
| System Size | Annual Utility Bill Savings |
| 3kW system | £160 |
| 4kW system | £270 |
| 5kW system | £320 |
| 6kW system | £430 |
Solar panels save you money by decreasing the amount of energy you need to buy from the Grid. Moreover, did you know that cutting traditional utility bills out completely is possible with a solar system that includes a solar battery?
That’s because solar batteries store renewable energy so it can be used during the night, reducing the need to use electricity from the National Grid. This electricity can also be used in case of emergencies, such as power outages.
You can start saving as soon as your solar panels (and battery, if you decide to take that route) are unpacked, installed and ready to go. Having money in your pocket is just one positive of installing solar panels — keep reading to find out more.
Look towards a green future
Installing solar panels is one way to reduce your reliance on fossil fuels and reduce your carbon footprint. And with the cost of solar technologies falling each year, there’s never been a better time to lead an as eco-friendly and carbon-neutral life as possible.
Of course, you may have questions to ask before committing to your installation.
For example, one of the biggest questions relates to whether the direction a roof faces affects the performance of solar panels. Solar panels are effective whichever way they face although south-facing roofs are the best position for optimal sun.
Whichever direction your roof faces, however, it’s recommended that the roof should be unshaded between 10 am and 4 pm where it can receive the maximum amount of sunlight.
Increase the value of your home
In most instances, property owners don’t require planning permission to install solar panels.
That’s unless it is listed or located in a Conservation Area when there are processes in place to ensure the appearance of the building(s) remains in character with its surroundings.
With little restriction when it comes to installation, going ahead and embracing this popular renewable technology is about as straightforward a decision as it gets.
Once installed the benefits just keep coming. According to research from 2020, solar panels will increase the price of a property by over £32,000 on average or 14 per cent.
The benefits are two-fold for homeowners — reduced bills and increased property values, while the global community will benefit as we reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.
Solar systems are low maintenance
Solar panels are low maintenance and once they’re installed, up and running and providing you with renewable energy, apart from the odd check and clean, there isn’t much you need to do.
It isn’t necessary to wash or clean solar panels regularly and the likelihood of debris affecting solar panels is low. If you live in an area where debris might be a problem, it could be worth putting a yearly cleaning plan in place — mainly for peace of mind.
For more information on cleaning solar panels read our in-depth guide on the subject which covers everything including extending the life of solar panels.
With such little maintenance to take care of you can be sure your investment will more than pay for itself over the lifespan of your solar panels and/or solar battery.
Are solar panels worth it in the UK?
Are solar panels worth it in the UK? The answer, of course, is a resounding “yes!”
Even in a nation not renowned for beaming sunshine, installing solar panels is a one-way ticket to lower bills and a greener future.
To start your solar panel journey, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team.
