Solar power is a clean and renewable source of energy that is becoming increasingly popular around the world. In the United Kingdom, solar panels are becoming more affordable, with the cost of installation dropping by over 70% in the past decade. However, for many people, the upfront cost of installing solar panels is still too high. So, how can you get solar panels for free in the UK?
The good news is that there are several ways you can get free solar panels in the UK. Here are some of the most common methods:
1. Community Energy Schemes
Community energy schemes are initiatives that are set up to provide renewable energy to local communities. These schemes are often run by local councils or community groups, and they aim to provide free or low-cost solar panels to households in the area. The panels are usually installed on the roofs of local buildings, such as community centres or schools, and the electricity generated is used to power the local area.
To find out if there is a community energy scheme in your area, you can check with your local council or search online for community energy schemes in your region.
2. Solar Grants
The UK government offers a number of grants and subsidies to help people install solar panels. These grants are designed to encourage the uptake of renewable energy and to help people reduce their energy bills.
One of the most popular grants is the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), which provides payments to homeowners who install renewable heating systems, such as solar panels. The RHI pays out for up to 7 years, and the amount you receive depends on the amount of energy your system generates.
To qualify for the RHI, you must have a renewable heating system installed by a certified installer. You can find a list of certified installers on the government’s website.
3. Solar Leasing
Solar leasing is a scheme where a company installs solar panels on your roof and then leases them back to you. This means that you get the benefits of the solar panels without having to pay for the installation costs upfront.
Under a solar leasing scheme, you pay a monthly fee to the company that installed the panels, and in return, they provide you with free electricity generated by the panels. The company also takes care of the maintenance and repair of the panels, so you don’t have to worry about any additional costs.
4. Solar Crowdfunding
Solar crowdfunding is a relatively new concept that allows people to invest in renewable energy projects. Under this scheme, investors can buy shares in a renewable energy project, such as a solar panel installation, and receive a return on their investment based on the amount of energy generated by the project.
The advantage of solar crowdfunding is that it allows people to invest in renewable energy projects without having to pay for the installation costs themselves. Instead, they can invest a small amount of money and receive a return on their investment over time.
To find out more about solar crowdfunding, you can search online for crowdfunding platforms that specialize in renewable energy projects.
In conclusion, there are several ways to get free solar panels in the UK. Whether you opt for a community energy scheme, a solar grant, solar leasing or solar crowdfunding, it’s clear that renewable energy is becoming more accessible and affordable for everyone. By taking advantage of these schemes, you can reduce your energy bills, help the environment and make a positive impact on your local community.
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