Solar Panels can be an effective way to reduce your energy bills, especially with the rising cost of electricity and gas across the continent over the previous year.
Choosing the right solar panel system and whether they are right for you can be tricky without professional support.
If you’re considering purchasing solar panels for your home or business, you may find the answers to some of these FAQ’s useful to know but as always, we’re available for free advice on solar panels. Contact us here for anything that isn’t covered here.
How much are solar panels?
The cost of solar panels in the UK can vary widely, depending on the size and type of the panels, as well as the location of the property and the complexity of the installation.
As the cost of energy is rising considerably and with the UK government slashing VAT on solar panels, the benefits of using solar energy are increasing.
Factors that can affect the cost of a solar panel system include:
- The size of the system: Larger systems will generally cost more than smaller systems.
- The type of panels: Different types of panels, such as monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film, can have different costs.
- The location of the property: Solar panels may cost more to install in certain locations, such as in areas with complex roof shapes or in areas with limited access.
- Any additional equipment or features: Adding features such as battery storage or smart monitoring systems can increase the cost of a solar panel system.
If you’re interested in installing solar panels and would like a no-obligation estimate you can use our solar panel cost calculator which will give you your estimate instantly. Click the link below to use our calculator:
Do solar panels need direct sunlight to work?
Solar panels can still produce electricity in cold and cloudy conditions, although they may be less efficient. The amount of sunlight that a solar panel receives is the most important factor in its electricity production, so panels in sunny locations will generally be more efficient.
How efficient are solar panels?
Solar panel efficiency refers to how well a panel converts sunlight into electricity. Most solar panels have an efficiency of around 15-20%, but some high-efficiency panels can have efficiencies of up to 25%.
It’s important to remember that the efficiency of a solar panel system is just one factor to consider when evaluating its performance. Other factors, such as the size of the system and the amount of electricity it produces, can also affect the overall effectiveness of the solar panel system.
Solar Storage batteries are a great way to maximise the efficiency of solar panels further and prevent wasted energy by way of storing the electricity your solar panels generate. Read our blog below on solar storage batteries for more information:
How long do solar panels last?
Solar panels are designed to last for several decades and are built to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Most solar panel manufacturers offer warranties of 25-30 years, and some panels may even last longer.
In fact, many solar panels are still producing electricity after 40 years of use. Proper maintenance, such as keeping the panels clean and ensuring that they are not damaged, can help to extend the lifespan of solar panels.
Overall, solar panels are a long-lasting and reliable source of renewable energy.
Do Solar Panels increase home value?
It is difficult to say with accuracy whether the value of your home will increase with solar panels.
It can be speculated that solar panels potentially increase the value of a house, as they can make the property more attractive to potential buyers who are interested in energy-efficient homes.
The installation of a solar panel system can result in lower energy bills for the homeowner, potentially making the property more appealing to potential buyers who are looking to reduce their monthly expenses.
However, the extent to which solar panels will increase the value of a house depends on a variety of factors, such as the size of the system, the location of the property, and the general market demand for homes with solar panels.
Although it’s not usual for residential homes, it would be prudent to check whether your property will require planning permission before undertaking solar panel installation. Check out our blog below for more information on planning permission around solar panels
