Solar power has become a popular and cost-effective way of generating electricity for homes in the United Kingdom. With the increasing cost of energy bills and the need to reduce carbon emissions, more and more homeowners are turning to solar power as an alternative source of energy. In this article, we will explore the different steps involved in solar powering your home in the United Kingdom.
1. Assess your home’s suitability for solar power
The first step in solar powering your home is to assess its suitability for solar panels. This involves checking the orientation and angle of the roof, the amount of shade the roof receives, and the size of the roof. Ideally, a south-facing roof with no shading is the best for solar panels. However, east or west-facing roofs can also work well. It is important to note that solar panels are not suitable for all homes, and it is best to consult with a professional to determine if your home is suitable.
2. Choose the right solar panel system
Once you have determined that your home is suitable for solar panels, the next step is to choose the right solar panel system. There are two main types of solar panel systems: grid-tied and off-grid. Grid-tied solar panel systems are connected to the national grid and allow homeowners to sell excess electricity back to the grid. Off-grid solar panel systems are not connected to the grid and require batteries to store excess electricity.
3. Find a reputable solar panel installer
The next step is to find a reputable solar panel installer. It is important to choose an installer who is certified by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). MCS certification ensures that the installer has the necessary skills and knowledge to install solar panel systems safely and efficiently. It is also important to get multiple quotes from different installers to compare prices and services.
4. Apply for government incentives
The UK government offers incentives for homeowners who install solar panel systems. The most popular incentive is the Feed-in Tariff (FIT) scheme, which pays homeowners for the electricity they generate and sell back to the grid. The FIT scheme is set to end on March 31, 2019, but homeowners who install solar panels before this date will still be eligible for payments for 20 years.
5. Install the solar panel system
Once you have chosen a reputable installer and applied for government incentives, the next step is to install the solar panel system. The installation process involves mounting the solar panels on the roof, connecting the panels to an inverter, and wiring the inverter to the electrical system of the home. The installation process can take anywhere from one day to one week, depending on the size and complexity of the system.
6. Monitor and maintain the solar panel system
Once the solar panel system is installed, it is important to monitor and maintain it to ensure optimal performance. This involves regularly cleaning the solar panels to remove any dirt, debris, or snow that may reduce their efficiency. It is also important to monitor the output of the solar panels to ensure they are generating the expected amount of electricity. Many solar panel systems come with monitoring systems that allow homeowners to track the amount of electricity generated and the amount of money saved.
In conclusion, solar powering your home in the United Kingdom involves assessing your home’s suitability for solar panels, choosing the right solar panel system, finding a reputable installer, applying for government incentives, installing the solar panel system, and monitoring and maintaining the system. By following these steps, homeowners can generate their own electricity, reduce their energy bills, and contribute to a cleaner and greener environment.
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