At SolarTherm UK, we know that the future of home energy in Essex, Suffolk, Kent and the wider South East lies in renewable energy, especially solar panels. Installing solar panels can reduce your electricity bills by up to 70%, increase your property value and help the planet.
This article will explore some of the most fascinating facts about solar power and renewable energy, highlighting how technology is transforming the way we generate electricity at home and across the world. Whether you’re considering solar panels in your Essex home or just curious about clean energy, this guide will provide a valuable insight into renewable energy.
Seven Countries Run Almost Entirely on Renewable Energy
Albania, Bhutan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Iceland, Nepal and Paraguay, generate over 99% of their electricity from renewable sources. Relying heavily on hydropower, in these countries, it shows the potential for other nations to follow suit and power the nation with clean, renewable sources.
In the UK, our renewable potential continues to grow. The increase of solar and wind farms across the UK and rooftop solar installations means every year more of our electricity is generated from renewable sources.
The UK Now Generates Over Half of Its Power from Renewables
In 2024, the UK reached a major milestone – generating 51% of electricity through renewable sources. Wind and solar power led the charge, while fossil fuel use fell to record lows. Millions of homes, including those across Essex, Kent and the South East are now powered by cleaner, greener energy. Homeowners with their own solar panel installations benefit from reduced energy bills by generating their own free electricity.
Fossil Fuel Power in the UK Has Fallen to 1950s Levels
Fossil fuel power generation in the UK dropped by 16% in 2024, the lowest level since the 1950s. With coal power now phased out and natural gas use decreasing, solar and wind are paving the way toward a Net Zero future. If you’re ready to be part of the change, SolarTherm UK can help you install an efficient solar panel system designed for your Essex home.
Global Renewable Energy Generation Will Hit 17,000 TWh by 2030
Renewable electricity generation is expected to exceed 17,000 terawatt-hours by 2030, that’s almost double the generation of 2023. It is expected that most of the growth will come from solar and wind energy. Government incentives, cleaner technology and a commitment by world leaders to reach Net Zero by 2050 are paving the way for growth in renewable energy.
Solar Panels Are Becoming More Efficient and Affordable
Modern solar panels are far more efficient than earlier models, converting more sunlight into electricity. At the same time, solar panels have dropped in price by over 80% in the last decade, making them significantly more affordable than ever before.
Solar Power Can Significantly Reduce Your Energy Bills
By installing solar panels, homeowners can generate their own free electricity, reducing reliance on expensive grid electricity. Depending on roof size, orientation and sun exposure, solar panels can offset up to 70% of your annual electricity bill. Homeowners across the South East can get a free no obligation quote from SolarTherm UK to find out how much they can save with a solar panel installation using our Solar Calculator.
The UK Has a Record Number of Homes Using Solar Panels
Over 1.6 million homes have now installed solar panels, and uptake is at its highest in the South East. With government incentives, reduced installation costs and finance options making solar easier and more accessible than ever before, an increasing number of homeowners are seeing solar power as a long term investment.
You Can Generate Electricity by Dancing
Kinetic flooring transforms footsteps into electricity, providing a sustainable energy source for venues across Europe. Even major acts like Coldplay have embraced this technology on their World Tour, using kinetic floors and pedal-powered bikes to generate power for lights and sound systems.
The World’s Oldest Solar Farm is in California
California’s Solar Energy Generating Systems (SEGS) still produce hundreds of gigawatt hours of clean energy every year despite being built in 1984. SEGS originally consisted of nine plants and still produces around 662GWh of clean energy each year, despite only having one operational plant left.
Solar Panels Are Long Lasting and Low Maintenance
High quality solar panels installed by professional solar panel installers like SolarTherm UK can last a minimum of 25 years with most going on to generate electricity efficiently for many years after. Solar panels have no moving parts so require little maintenance, just an occasional clean to remove stubborn dirt and debris that isn’t removed with rainfall.
The World’s Largest Solar Farm is in China
China is home to the world’s largest solar farm, spanning 2.6 square kilometres with a capacity of 2,800MW, the Golmud Solar Park in Qinghai Province, powers millions of homes each year.
There Could Be a Solar Farm in Space by 2030
The European Space Agency’s SOLARIS aims to place satellites in orbit to harvest solar energy and beam it to Earth using microwaves by 2030. China is also developing a solar array that will be a massive 1km wide, capable of collecting solar energy around the clock without having to deal with cloudy weather and night time like solar panels on Earth.
Solar Farms Are Expanding Across the UK
While rooftop solar is ideal for homes, large scale solar farms are also growing in the UK. These are used to contribute to the energy mix of the national electricity supply and demonstrate the potential of solar power to replace fossil fuels over time.
Getting Solar Panels Installed Is Easier Than Ever
Professional solar panel installers like SolarTherm UK make it simple to switch to solar. From initial consultation to installation to aftercare, we handle everything so homeowners across Essex, Kent, Suffolk and the wider South East can enjoy hassle free renewable energy.
Start Saving with Solar Panels
Switching to solar energy is a smart move for homeowners who want to save money, increase property value and reduce their carbon footprint. Contact SolarTherm UK 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.
