Solar panels have become an increasingly popular source of renewable energy in recent years. They provide a sustainable, cost-effective, and reliable alternative to traditional energy sources such as fossil fuels. With the improvement of at home battery storage there has never been a better time to invest in renewable energy. Below we will discuss the pros and cons of solar panels, battery storage and why they are becoming a more popular option for homeowners and businesses alike.
What is a solar PV system?
Solar PV also known as a solar photovoltaic system, is a type of renewable energy system that generates electricity from sunlight using solar panels.
Most systems are typically made up of photovoltaic cells, which convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity an inverter, wiring, and mounting equipment. The inverter then converts the DC electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is used to power electrical appliances and equipment in a home or building.
In the UK most of the home and business Solar PV systems are mounted to pitched roofs. This often offers the best unshaded area however it is possible to install solar systems on the ground, flat roofs or on special solar structures such as carports and garages. As a clean and renewable source of energy solar panels can help reduce your reliance on fossil fuels and decrease overall carbon emissions. Additionally, they can provide energy independence and cost savings over time.
Cost Savings
The cost savings from a solar panel system will depend upon the size and style of the system, the location, roof shape and orientation. Lowering electricity bills by generating electricity from sunlight can offset or even eliminate the need for electricity from the grid.
The return on investment (ROI) Solar panels can provide will be determined by several factors including cost of installation, maintenance, style, configuration and energy prices. While the initial cost of the system may be high, the electricity savings and potential income from selling excess electricity back to the grid can return all the initial outlay in a few years. Offering a fantastic ROI over the life of the system.
Currently tax incentives and government rebates can help offset the initial cost of the system and increase the profit over time. With the ever-rising cost of electricity it is easy to see why more and more homes and businesses are investing in solar panels today.
Home Battery Storage and energy independence.
Solar PV systems offer some fantastic benefits, however, one of the down sides is the unequal FIT (feed in tariff) rate when compared to the purchase price, most energy providers only pay a fraction of what they charge the consumer per kilowatt (kW).
A battery system allows you to capture any unused energy storing it for later making the system more efficient and maximizing the solar productivity. This stored electricity, when used, can replace the need to draw power from the grid meaning that each kW held is worth the equivalent of what you would have been charged.
By increasing your energy independence, a battery storage system allows you to take energy generated during the day and use it at night or during times when the sun is not shining.
A total solar PV and battery system provides piece of mind that even during power outages or emergencies you will be able to produce and store electricity to run your home or business. This is especially beneficial in areas with unreliable grid power.
Environmental Sustainability
Another significant benefit of solar panels is their positive impact on the environment by harnessing energy from the sun, a clean and renewable power source can reduce the reliance on burning fossil fuels. Burning fossil fuels emits harmful greenhouse gases into the atmosphere and contributes to climate change. Opting to install solar panels individuals and businesses can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. Solar panels generate electricity without producing any emissions or air pollution, making them a cleaner and healthier alternative, reducing air pollution which has a negative impact on human health and the health of the planet.
An often under reported part of energy production from the burning of fossil fuels is the significant amounts of water required for cooling and other processes. Solar panels do not require water to generate electricity, which can help to conserve water resources.
By choosing to install Solar panels on your pitched or flat roof, less additional land needs to be allocated to green energy production. This makes solar energy a more sustainable option compared to other forms of energy that require large land areas for mining, drilling, and extraction.
Increased Property Value
Installing solar panels can also increase the value of a property. Many homebuyers and businesses are becoming more interested in sustainable energy sources and may be willing to pay a premium for properties equipped with solar panels. Studies conducted in the UK have shown that solar panels can increase the value of a property. According to a report by the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC), solar panels can add up to 4% to the value of a home in the UK.
A separate study by the Solar Trade Association (STA) found that solar panels can add an average of £2500 to the value of a property in the UK. Additionally, solar panels can provide a competitive advantage for businesses, particularly those in the hospitality industry, where sustainability is becoming an increasingly important consideration for customers.
Maintenance
Solar cells (panels) are generally low maintenance and require very little upkeep once installed. The panels are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and can last for up to 25 years or more with proper care. This means that once installed, solar panels can provide a reliable and cost-effective source of energy for many years without requiring significant maintenance or repairs.
One major downside of “traditional” solar panel systems is the roof maintenance. Once installed over roof systems block access to the roof covering below meaning that to carry out any repairs to broken tiles or slates it is necessary to remove part or all of the panels adding significant cost and causing delays and preventing essential works being carried to stop any roof leaks.
It is true that Solar panels offer a range of benefits for homeowners and businesses alike. Any savings on energy bills can quickly be wiped out, as with many installation contracts it is required that the company which installed the system carry out any alterations to ensure warranties are not voided. This puts you completely at their mercy regarding time scale and costs when work is needed to the roof covering underneath. Leaving the building or homeowner often in a difficult position. At Furber roofing we offer the latest integrated solar PV systems.
What are integrated solar systems
Integrated solar panels, also known as building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), are solar panels that are integrated directly into a building’s structure. Rather than being mounted on top of an existing roof, BIPV systems are incorporated into the building materials themselves, such as roofing tiles, glass facades, or exterior walls.
Integrated PV systems offer several advantages over traditional solar panel installations being fixed directly onto the battens to replace a section of roof tiles or slates means a completely flush fit can be achieved, to provide a sleek, unobtrusive often unseen finish. What’s more, with no space behind the panels for birds to nest and no roof covering underneath, BIPV systems are a very low maintenance, high performance solar solution.
BIPV systems can blend seamlessly into a building’s design, making them a popular choice for homeowners who are looking for a more visually appealing solution to traditional solar panels.
As BIPV systems are integrated into a building’s roof covering, they can be installed as part of reroofing replacing the need for roof tiles or slate reducing the cost of reroofing during the install or at a future date, all adding to security of a roof that works to keep the weather out, also works to generate power for the home
Why choose Furber Roofing
At Furber roofing we are primarily a roofing company. Established in 1957 spanning 4 generations, we have been trading for coming up to 70years with a customer focus and family values at our core.
Unlike other solar installers our first assessment will be whether a Solar PV system is right for you and your roof. One of our highly experienced estimators will carry out a health check of your existing roof covering. Unfortunately, we see and deal with the aftermath of solar systems that have been installed over roofs that are in excess of 60 years old on a regular basis. If need we can offer a complete scaffolding, reroofing and solar package from one trusted and established company. This means no need for you to liaise between different contractors. Leaving you with a quality product, installed to the latest standards all covered by an insurance backed guarantee.
Once the initial assessment is complete will work to tailor a solar PV system to suit your needs and available space. Providing a free quotation and answering any questions you may have. Please call us on 01516912798 to speak to a member of the team or click here to book and appointment. We cover the whole of the North West including Wirral, Liverpool and Chester.
