The Risks and Real Costs Explained
As solar installation becomes more popular, it is worth investigating all options available and weighing up the pros and cons. A solar PV system can be very appealing, especially when allowing for savings on electricity bills, reduction in your carbon footprint and the independence you gain from the National Grid.
While it may be tempting to purchase second hand panels due to their lower upfront costs, it is vital you know the major risks that come with buying second hand panels. At SolarTherm UK we investigate all options so you have everything you need to make an informed decision on what is right for your home and power.
The Pros of Purchasing Second Hand Solar Panels
Second hand solar panels can cost as little as £50-£70 on reselling sites such as Gumtree and eBay. The lower costs can make solar panels more accessible and reduce the payback period. Purchasing used solar panels is also good for the environment, reducing the amount of working panels ending up in landfill and reducing waste and manufacturing emissions.
If the second hand panels are still in a good condition, the lower cost means your investment will be paid sooner.
The Downside to Using Second Hand Solar Panels
Even using second hand solar panels, your savings on costs are minimal. Modern solar panels are more affordable than ever and with government incentives such as 0% VAT, brand new panels ensure you get quality and longevity out of your investment.
Second hand panels cannot be certified, meaning you will not be able to access the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) and may find you are more limited on insurance options or credit options. Even though you are buying second hand, your panels still need to be installed by a MCS-accredited installer and you will still need a solar inverter and mounting equipment. It is not advised to DIY install your solar panels for safety reasons and it is unlikely you would get insurance cover if you have installed them without a qualified installer.
Second hand solar panels are more likely to have hidden damage, micro-cracks and internal faults will not necessarily be visible. They are unlikely to come with a warranty, meaning repairs and maintenance become your responsibility and expense.
A typical solar panel sees efficiency drop by ~0.3% per year, older panels will generate less energy and can be less efficient. New panels last 25-30 years and most come with a 25 year warranty, guaranteeing efficiency at a certain level. If you purchase second hand solar panels, you don’t know what quality panels you are getting, and for the money you are saving on buying second hand, there is a chance you are losing out on savings you would be making if you purchased new.
Cost Overview
Solar panels are one of the cheapest parts of your solar system, a used solar panel will cost £50-£70 per panel, depending on age, size and brand. While a new solar PV system can cost as little as £5,000 all installed. Cheap solar panels may seem like a good idea and a bargain, but can lead to costly repairs or poor performance. Every time your solar panel malfunctions, you have the additional cost of scaffolding, labour and materials. While we can’t guarantee a brand new solar panel won’t develop a fault, these are few and far between and usually a quick turn around to get repaired.
Questions to Ask Sellers?
Before buying second hand solar panels, always ask:
- How old are the panels?
- Have they had any past issues or repairs?
- Are they still covered by a manufacturer warranty?
- What’s their current energy output or efficiency rating?
Conclusion
Second hand solar panels can save money upfront but can come with long term risks. Lack of certification means no SEG payments and potential insurance issues. There’s no guarantee on the quality or lifespan of your second hand solar panels, and rarely do they come with the backing of the manufacturer’s warranty.
For most homeowners, new MCS certified solar panels offer better value, performance and peace of mind. Partnering with an accredited MCS installer like SolarTherm UK ensures safe installation, full certification and maximum efficiency, without the risk of faulty and dangerous equipment.
Ready to Start Your Solar Journey?
Contact SolarTherm UK today for a free, no obligation quote and design, tailored to your property, usage and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
