Are Solar Panels Right for Me?

Energy costs are more expensive than they’ve been for decades. But concerns about the environment are also at an all-time high.

This raises so many questions about how to afford our bills and emit less emissions.

Are solar panels the solution for me?

In this article, we take a look at whether they’re worth it, or not, and address the main worries we all have about buying solar panels for our homes.

The main concerns are:

1) The high upfront costs

2) The potential to engage unreliable installers

3) A slow return on the initial investment

Let’s take this in stages

In the UK, average initial costs can be high, and most of us will have to find a builder to not only install the solar panels, but to help us decide what sort of system is right for our home.

Even if we get these stages right, it then takes a number of years to get back the money you spent on the solar panels before you generate your own green, clean, free energy thereafter.

So it is certainly worth doing your research! This article is designed to help save you time by covering the main aspects for all solar installations step-by-step.

How much do they cost?

When I was at this early stage, I just wanted to know the costs vs. the savings that solar panels provide.

In the UK, the average cost for a solar panel system, including both labour and materials, typically ranges between £5,000 and £8,000 for a standard 3–4 kW system, which is suitable for an average household. Here's a quick breakdown of costs:

- Solar Panels and other materials: £3,000 to £6,000, depending on quality and how many.

- Installation labour: £1,000 to £2,000, depending on the complexity of the job.

- These prices may vary based on location, roof suitability, and specific installer rates.

Savings

Solar panels can cut energy bills by up to 70%, especially in well-suited, insulated homes. The savings from solar panels in the UK depend on certain factors: how much energy your household uses, how many solar panels you have, and the weather in your region.

On average, homeowners can save around £300–£500 per year on electricity with a standard 3–4 kW system. Over 25 years, this can add up to £12,500 in savings, all while the cost of energy from the Grid continues to rise considerably.

It is important to remember that while you will be generating your own energy, the energy you no longer need from the Grid will be going up in price.

How can I afford Solar Panels?

There are several ways to make solar panels more affordable, including grants, incentives, and financing options:

Green Finance Initiatives: Some banks and lenders, such as NatWest and Barclays, offer green home improvement loans with favorable terms to fund solar panel installation.

Financing: Many solar companies partner with finance providers to offer monthly payment plans, allowing homeowners to spread the cost over several years.

While direct grants are currently limited, the new Labour government may expand these options as part of their Green Agenda.

How much do they work through the seasons?

In the UK, solar panels generate energy on most days of the year, even when it’s cloudy. Panels work best on sunny days but still produce power with indirect sunlight. Here’s what to expect:

Summer: Maximum output with long days and higher sun exposure.

Spring/Autumn: Good output on clear days, though production is lower than summer.

Winter: Shorter, cloudier days mean reduced production, but panels still generate energy.

Overall, UK panels produce electricity around 300 days a year.

Can I sell money back to the Grid?

Yes. There are government grants like the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), which help you earn by selling excess power back to the grid.

Under the SEG, energy suppliers offer rates typically ranging from 1p to 15p per kilowatt-hour (kWh), though rates vary depending on the provider and your system’s output. On average, homeowners can earn between £50 and £100 per year with a typical 3–4 kW solar system. Larger systems or those with battery storage, which can store and release power at optimal times, may yield higher returns.

How do I assess what Solar Panels I will need?

·        Reputable installers are registered with the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). This is a scheme accrediting installers with this highest standards. This is designed to protect you, so always make sure your installer is MCS certified.

·        The Energy Saving Trust (EST) provides impartial information on solar panel options, savings, and installation advice tailored for UK homes.

·        Which? As a consumer choice expert also offers impartial advice.

·        The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) has a searchable database of certified installers. Look through them and make your choice!

·        Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain at least three quotes from different MCS-certified companies. This helps you compare options and avoid inflated costs.

·        Check Reviews and Get References: Look up reviews on platforms like Trustpilot and ask the installer for references.

What do I need to look out for?

When choosing solar panels, and the person who will install them, consider these factors:

1. Panel Quality and Efficiency: Look for panels with high efficiency ratings (look for around 18–23% efficiency) from reputable brands. Search for Tier 1 solar panel manufacturers - these are generally the most reliable.

2. System Size and Energy Needs: Choose a system size that matches your household’s electricity usage and roof space. A good installer will assess this on-site and look at your annual energy consumption.

3. Inverter Type: Inverters are what convert solar power into usable electricity. High-quality inverters, like string or microinverters, ensure efficiency and longevity.

4. Installer Credentials: MCS certification comes with warranties on installation and equipment.

5. Warranties: Look for panels with a 20–25-year performance warranty and an inverter warranty of at least 5–10 years. This protects against defects and performance drops.

6. Orientation and Shading: South-facing roofs without shading produce the most energy. Your installer should assess shading to optimize panel placement.

7. Maintenance: Solar panels generally require minimal maintenance, but cleaning may be necessary in areas with debris or dust.

What kind of roof do I need?

In the UK, solar panels are most effective on south-facing roofs with an angle between 30-40 degrees. However, they can still work well on southwest, southeast, and even east or west-facing roofs, though these orientations may produce slightly less energy.

1. Minimal Shading: Trees, chimneys, or neighboring buildings that cast shadows will reduce energy output. An installer should assess shading for optimal panel placement.

2. Roof Condition: Roofs should be structurally sound and in good condition. It's often best to repair or replace an older roof before installation to avoid later disruptions.

3. Roof materials: Solar panels can be installed on most roofing materials, including tile, slate, asphalt, and metal. However, slate and clay tiles may require extra care and specialized mounting equipment, which could slightly increase installation costs.

Most roofs in the UK meet these criteria, so a reputable installer can usually recommend the best setup for nearly any roof type.

How long do Solar Panels last?

A quality system lasts 25+ years, meaning that even in less sunny regions, most homeowners see significant savings over time.

Battery Storage

Installing a battery is another option on top of a solar panel installation. Already around 100,000 homes in the UK have battery storage installed, a number that’s been growing quickly in recent years. By the late 2020s, it’s estimated that battery storage could be in up to 1 million UK homes as costs continue to decrease, and technology improves. The sector has seen significant growth due to rises in electricity prices, greater adoption of solar panels, and the push for energy independence and sustainability. Put simply, batteries extend your ability to be energy independent from The Grid, give you greater protection from power cuts, and provide you with a greater store of energy over longer periods.

Supportive Government Policies: The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) has encouraged more people to consider batteries, as it allows homeowners to store and sell excess energy back to The Grid.

Stages

Taking a step-by-step approach can help you choose the right solar battery storage system and installer for your needs, and to decide whether batteries are the right choice for you right now. Here’s a guide to get you started:

1. Assess Your Energy Needs

Review your electricity usage, especially peak times when battery storage could make the most impact as batteries allow you to use stored energy instead of high-peak prices energy from The Grid.

Check that your solar panel setup can support a battery or if it may need upgrades, such as a hybrid inverter.

2. Research Battery Types and Brands

Most home batteries use lithium-ion technology, known for efficiency and long lifespan. Lead-acid batteries are also an option but are typically less efficient and have a shorter lifespan.

Capacity and Power Rating: Look for a battery that can store enough energy to meet your typical evening or nighttime usage. UK households generally opt for 5–10 kWh. The average household in the UK consumes about 8-10 kWh of electricity per day, so evening energy use can be estimated to be 3-4 kWh of electricity on a typical weekday.

Brand and Reliability: Well-known brands, such as Tesla Powerwall, LG Chem, or Sonnen, are popular due to reliability.

3. Compare Costs and Warranties

Battery systems cost between £3,000 and £7,000. Ensure you know what’s included, such as installation fees and any required additional equipment (such as an inverter).

A good battery warranty should cover 10 years or a minimum of 5,000 cycles. Look for warranties that guarantee at least 70–80% capacity at the end of the warranty period.

4. Find Certified Installers

Look for an installer certified by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), as this ensures they meet industry standards.

Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain at least three quotes to compare costs, equipment options, and warranties. Reputable installers will provide a detailed breakdown of each component.

5. Read Reviews and Ask for References

Check online reviews (Trustpilot, Google, and Company websites are the best).

Ask the installer for references.

6. Review the Installation Plan and Timeline

Installation Plan: Ensure the installer provides a clear plan, including where the battery will be located, any additional electrical work needed, and estimated installation time, deposits etc.

Confirm that the installer offers ongoing support and maintenance after the installation is complete.

Cost

Typical Costs: A solar battery system costs between £3,000 and £7,000 for a mid-sized battery (5–10 kWh capacity), suitable for most UK homes.

Installation Costs: Installation typically adds another £500 to £1,000 to the total cost, depending on the system and installer rates.

Higher-Capacity Options: Larger batteries (10+ kWh) for high-usage households may cost £8,000–£12,000.

Savings

Typical Battery Sizes: Most UK households opt for batteries with 5–10 kWh capacity, storing enough to cover an evening or night’s usage.

Daily Savings: With battery storage, you can maximize the use of solar energy by reducing peak-time electricity purchases. Depending on household usage and grid energy costs, annual savings may range from £200 to £500.

Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): While not directly a savings, exporting excess power to the grid through the SEG can still earn £50–£100 per year in additional income.

How long do they last?

Battery Lifespan: Most batteries last 10–15 years and come with warranties that guarantee at least 70–80% capacity at the end of the warranty period.

Payback Period: Depending on energy prices and household usage, the payback period can range from 10 to 15 years.

Which one is right for me?

Compatibility: Ensure the battery is compatible with your solar inverter or consider a hybrid inverter. A hybrid inverter is a device used in solar power systems that combines the functions of a traditional inverter with battery storage management. It converts DC electricity from solar panels into AC electricity for home use and can store excess energy in a battery for later. Hybrid inverters can also interact with the grid, allowing users to either export excess power or draw energy during outages. They offer energy independence, cost savings, and backup power, making them ideal for homes with solar setups. Overall, hybrid inverters help optimize solar energy use and reduce dependency on the grid.

Battery Type: Lithium-ion batteries are the most common for residential use due to their efficiency and durability.

Time-of-Use Tariffs: Batteries are especially useful if you’re on a time-of-use tariff, allowing you to charge during cheap periods and use stored energy at peak times.

Where would I put it?

The best location for a solar battery in your home is a cool, dry, and well-ventilated space that is easily accessible for maintenance. Ideal locations include:

1. Garage or Utility Room: These spaces typically stay at moderate temperatures, are away from living areas, and offer enough room for installation and maintenance.

2. Basement: If dry and well-ventilated, a basement can be a good option as it is usually temperature-stable and out of the way.

3. Under the Stairs or Storage Cupboards: These spots can work well if they provide adequate ventilation and aren’t prone to high temperatures or moisture.

Key Considerations

Temperature Control: Batteries operate best in moderate temperatures (ideally between 10–30°C). Avoid attics, conservatories, or other areas with extreme heat or cold, as these conditions can degrade battery performance.

Ventilation: Proper airflow is essential to prevent overheating, especially for lithium-ion batteries.

Accessibility: Choose a location where the battery can be safely accessed for periodic inspections or servicing.

By choosing the right location, you can help ensure the battery operates efficiently and maintains its lifespan.

Generators

At-home generators in the UK are less common than solar battery systems but are popular among households seeking backup power during outages. Generators range in price from £500 to £5,000, depending on size and type, with standby generators costing more due to automatic activation features. Typical sizes for home use range from 5 to 20 kW, suitable for powering essential appliances or even the whole house. Running on fuel like petrol, diesel, or natural gas, generators require regular maintenance and fuel storage, and they can be noisy. Unlike solar batteries, which store renewable energy, generators provide power on demand but are generally used only as emergency backups rather than everyday power solutions.

Safety Standards

There are specific certifications and standards that suppliers and installers of home generators in the UK must meet to ensure safety, quality, and reliability. Here’s a breakdown:

Certifications and Standards

1. BS EN 1090 Certification: This is a key European standard for generator suppliers, especially if installation involves structural modifications or generator enclosures.

2. ISO 9001 Quality Management: Suppliers with ISO 9001 certification adhere to high standards in product consistency and quality control.

3. Gas Safe Certification: For generators that run on natural gas, installers must be Gas Safe Registered to legally handle and connect gas appliances.

4. Electricity at Work Regulations (1989): Installers must comply with these UK regulations for the safe installation and use of electrical equipment in workplaces and residences.

These certifications are typically renewed every one to three years to ensure ongoing compliance with safety and quality standards.

Power Duration

How long a generator can power your home depends on its size and fuel supply:

Small, Portable Generators (5–7 kW): Often used to power essential appliances, these can typically run **4–10 hours** on a full tank of fuel.

Standby Generators (10–20+ kW): Designed to power an entire home, these can operate continuously if connected to a sufficient fuel supply (e.g., a natural gas line) or for 12–24 hours on a large diesel tank.

Standby generators automatically start during outages and can power a home for extended periods, making them ideal for longer disruptions, provided fuel is available.