Solar energy can be captured and used in two different ways – solar tubes which capture the sun’s energy and uses it to heat water, and Solar Photovoltaic (Solar PV) where the sun’s energy is converted into electricity.
TD Eco Energy can help and advise you on both solar energy options.
Solar Panels
Solar Electrical Panels (Photovoltaic Units)
Solar panels are fitted to your roof and these capture heat from the sun and use it to heat water stored in a hot water cylinder. An alternative heating system, conventional system or immersion heater is used to bring the water up to the desired temperature, or provide hot water when there is not sufficient solar energy.
For achieving maximum benefits the solar panels need to be fitted to a south facing roof and will need to receive direct sunlight for the majority of the day.
The installation cost will depend on the existing system and in particular the type of hot water cylinder being used.
The solar panels operate by heating water in a ‘closed loop’ system which passes through a coiled pipe in your water cylinder. Therefore your water cylinder may need to be uprated to a larger capacity twin coiled type to allow your main heating system and the solar system to warm the water together.
Sunlight is free so once you’ve paid for the initial installation your electricity costs will be greatly reduced. A typical home can achieve an energy saving in excess of 50% during the summer months.
Grants are available for installing green technology. An overall maximum of £400 or 30% of the relevant eligible costs, whichever is the lower, can be offset against your costs.
Photovoltaic panels are fitted to your roof (similar to the standard solar panels) and convert solar energy into electrical current.
The current provided is d-c current (similar to a car battery) which is converted into a-c current through an invertor in to mains current. The electrical energy can then be used in the property or even sold back to your electricity provider if surplus energy is produced.
For achieving maximum benefits the Photovoltaic panels need to be fitted to a south facing roof or wall and will need to receive direct sunlight for the majority of the day. Your house should not be overshadowed by trees or other buildings otherwise less energy will be produced. You will need to ensure that your roof is strong enough to support the panels.
Installation costs for a solar electricity system vary a lot – an average system costs between £8000 and £20000 depending on its size and type.
The more electricity you require, the more it costs to install but the overall electrical savings increase considerably.
Savings can be considerable and up to £250 could be achieved assuming a 2.5kwp system using 50% of the electricity within the property and selling 50% back to the grid. This could equate to 50% of the household’s yearly electricity needs.
This type of system provides green, renewable energy that does not release any harmful C02 or other pollutants. A typical home PV system could save around 1.2 tonnes of carbon dioxide a year.
Grants are available for installing green technology. An overall grant of £2000/kw of installed capacity, subject to a maximum of £2500 or 50% of the relevant eligible costs is available. The grant is based on the lowest value of the 2 options above.
