At SolarTherm UK, we know that many homeowners are considering the switch to renewable energy, and installing solar panels is one of the most affordable and effective ways to cut energy bills, reduce your carbon footprint and gain energy independence.
If you’re still asking yourself, “Should I get solar panels for my house?”, it’s worth looking at all the benefits and making an informed decision on what’s right for your property and lifestyle.
How Do Solar Panels Work?
A solar PV system uses photovoltaic (PV) cells to capture sunlight and convert it into clean renewable energy for your home. Unlike fossil fuels, solar power is sustainable and will never run out.
The UK’s moderate climate, give the perfect conditions for solar panels, with rare events of extreme weather or extreme temperature fluctuations. Even on a cloudy UK day, solar panels will still generate electricity, they don’t need blazing hot sunshine, just daylight.
By pairing your solar PV system with a solar battery, you can store excess energy for use in the evening or on cloudy days when your generation is lower than your usage, further reducing your reliance on the National Grid.
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost to Install?
The biggest upfront expense is the solar panel installation itself, while it is a significant investment, your system will start paying for itself over time, through lower energy bills and potential income from exports back to the grid.
Roof-mounted solar PV systems are generally the most cost-effective option, with a typical installation for a three-bedroom property starting around £6,500. Once installed, maintenance is minimal and most solar panels come with a warranty of a minimum of 25 years, ensuring long-term performance and efficiency.
Will Solar Panels Save Me Money?
Yes, but how much and how quickly will depend on multiple factors. The size of your system, cost of installation, average usage and whether you have a solar battery installed will all affect how quickly you see a return on investment. To maximise your savings you should run energy heavy appliances during daylight hours when your solar PV is generating the most power, install a solar battery to store excess energy for use in the evenings and take full advantage of smart controllers to ensure devices are using solar power before drawing from the grid. Over time, and with some balancing of your system, you reduce your reliance on the National Grid and lower your energy bills, up to 70% in most cases!
Can You Make Money From Solar Panels?
With the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), homeowners can earn money by exporting unused solar energy back to the grid. While you won’t be making a substantial income from selling back to the grid, some households can earn up to £200 a year. The best solar PV systems are those that are designed to cover your household usage and rarely export back to the grid as most of your generated electricity is consumed immediately or stored in your solar battery.
Do Solar Panels Increase Property Value?
A home with a solar PV system installed is often seen as more attractive to buyers, thanks to rising energy prices and a growing demand for sustainable living. Installing solar panels is not only an energy solution, but also a solid home improvement that can boost your property’s value.
Are There Any Downsides?
The main drawback of a solar PV installation is the initial cost. However, with smart designing, long-lasting warranties and reduced energy bills, most homeowners will find the investment pays off, usually within 10 years (some in as short as 5 years!).
Ready to Start Your Solar Journey?
If you’re still asking “Should I get solar panels for my home?” the answer is likely yes. A professionally installed solar PV system by an MCS certified installer like SolarTherm UK will help you save money, reduce your carbon footprint, add value to your home and reduce your reliance on expensive grid electricity.
At SolarTherm UK, our expert team makes the process simple, from initial enquiry to installation. Get in touch today to discuss your options and receive a free bespoke 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.
