Solar PV - Explained

Despite the recent changes to the feed-in tariffs for Solar PV installations, it is not actually bad news as there are still guarantees of significant savings and returns on investment by acting now. Whatever the outcome is, of the government's appeal against the court's ruling against their recent slash in the solar feed-in-tariff, there are plenty of reasons that you should still have Solar PV Panels installed on to your home.

• The reason for this system becoming so popular is that the UK Government announced the feed in tariff from 43.3p per unit of electric, which is paid to householders who generate electricity from solar panels and feed it into the National Grid.
• Current payment levels, the Feed-in Tariff, are guaranteed until 2035.
• When announcing these payments the Secretary of State said that using a 2kW system, on average, householders could expect to be paid £900 annually as well as saving £140.
• The equivalent calculation for a 4kW installation totals £1,600.
• However, these calculations are based upon a householder installing a PV system now. The current starting rate is held for 25 years whereas householders delaying a decision will start on a lower rate.
• A recent MORI poll showed that the value of properties with PV installations could be enhanced by over £10,000.
• The electricity is generated by a series of crystalline silicon cells, grouped into a framed panel and encased in toughened glass. The action of light on these cells is to create a direct current, which is then converted to alternating current which we use in our homes, or is fed into the National Grid.
• These panels are usually fitted onto the existing roof, although there are some which fit flush, and replace the existing tiles or slates.
• Planning permission is not needed for most houses but Harrisons Group can advise on these issues, and will always install equipment so that it meets all the necessary regulations.