Green energy is rapidly transforming the way we power our homes and solar panels are one of the most efficient, affordable and eco-friendly options available. Sunlight is captured by photovoltaic cells and converted to usable electricity by your solar inverter. Solar PV panels help save you money on your electricity bills, increase your property value and reduce your carbon footprint, all while contributing to a sustainable future.
At SolarTherm UK, we specialise in solar panel installation across Essex, Kent, Hertfordshire and the wider South East, providing homeowners with high quality solar solutions tailored to your property. Here are 20 essential facts every homeowner should know before switching to solar energy.
Solar Energy Isn’t New
The idea of harnessing the sun’s power dates back centuries, the first solar cell appearing in the 19th century. Developments in solar technology mean modern solar panels are far more efficient and reliable than ever before, delivering cost effective energy to homes across Essex, Kent and Hertfordshire.
Solar Energy is Free and Renewable
After the initial outlay for your solar PV system, the electricity that is generated is free. Solar power is renewable and will never run out. By installing solar you’ll dramatically reduce your reliance on traditional energy suppliers who supply fossil fuel generated electricity and reduce your carbon footprint, helping the environment while enjoying long term financial savings.
Made from Earth Abundant Materials
Modern solar panels use silicon, the second most abundant element in the Earth’s crust. A single tonne of silicon can produce as much electricity as burning 500,000 tonnes of coal, without the harmful emissions.
Types of Solar Panels
There are two main types of solar panels:
- Photovoltaic (PV) panels convert sunlight into electricity for your home
- Solar thermal panels heat water for showers, radiators or swimming pools
At SolarTherm UK, we install bespoke solar PV systems, tailored to your household and energy needs.
Affordable Long Term Investment
Although installation costs are initially high, solar PV can be made more affordable with finance options and offsetting your payments against your electricity bill savings. Most homeowners are seeing a return on investment of less than 10 years, some as short as 5 years. On top of this, homes with solar panels tend to sell faster and higher than those without.
Minimal Maintenance Required
Once installed, solar panels require very little upkeep. Occasional cleaning to remove stubborn dirt or debris that isn’t washed away by rainfall is usually enough to keep your solar PV panels working efficiently. Using your solar system monitoring app will also give you a heads up if your system is underperforming and requires a check or maintenance. Most solar panels come with a 25 year warranty but can continue performing efficiently for 30 years or more.
Solar Panels Work – Even on Cloudy Days
While sunlight increases efficiency, solar PV systems still generate electricity during cloudy weather. When you add in a solar battery into your solar PV system, you can have round the clock free electricity, even on cloudy or rainy days, making your home even more energy independent.
Choosing the Right Installation
At SolarTherm UK we don’t believe in a one size fits all solar option. Our systems are designed custom to your property, so even if your roof is not a perfect south facing 30° pitch, the system we install will perform efficiently for your needs.
Versatile Technology
Modern solar panels are versatile and can be installed on rooftops, commercial building, flat roofs or even ground mounted. From powering your home to contributing to large solar farms, the same technology is used for almost any application, just on different scales.
Planning Permission is Rarely Needed
Under permitted development rights, planning permission is rarely needed to install solar panels. Planning permission is only required for some ground mounted systems, listed buildings or in a conservation area. At SolarTherm UK, our local based installers are informed of all local planning regulations and requirements.
Reliable and Durable
With no moving parts, solar PV panels are highly reliable, even in extreme weather conditions. Most panels guarantee 80% efficiency over 25 years and the real-world degradation is minimal.
Silent Operation
Solar panels operate silently, making them an ideal solution to reducing electricity bills in residential areas where noise reduction is important. Unlike generators, they don’t disrupt your home or local community with noise pollution.
Modular and Expandable
You can easily expand your solar PV system by adding more panels (space allowing) or upgrading your inverter. Solar batteries can also be added to ensure your system is fully flexible and can grow with your household.
Safe and Eco-Friendly
Solar panels require no combustible fuels, making them safe for your home, all while reducing your reliance on fossil fuels and lowering environmental impact.
Peak Load Management
Solar energy generation aligns with daytime energy demands. Peak grid usage can be reduced by more households switching to solar, easing strain on the grid. With solar battery installation you can reduce your reliance on the grid further, using your stored solar generated electricity in the evenings and through the night.
High Altitude Performance
PV systems perform well even at higher elevations, making them suitable for all homes, even those on hills.
Improves Grid Stability
The National Grid has been operating for over 90 years and is constantly being upgraded to support the additional demand from new homes and the increase in electricity use across the UK. By producing electricity on your roof, you are supporting the grid reliability, reducing the risk of power outages.
Reduces Long Term Liability
Switching to solar reduces exposure to future price rises associated with traditional energy generation. Electricity prices continue to rise as import prices for fossil fuels required to run power plants increase.
Boosts Local Employment
Installing solar panels with a local installer helps create jobs in your community. At SolarTherm UK, every team member you meet is local, from your designer to the surveyor to your install team. Our dedicated team know your area and know local regulations and restrictions.
SolarTherm UK Makes It Easy
We provide everything you need to make your solar panel installation run smoothly. Our team of MCS certified installers will guide you through every step of the process from design to installation to first class aftercare and maintenance.
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.
