Solar Thermal and Photovoltaic Specialists

Solar Electricity Generation

Solar electrical power generation requires solar photovoltaic (PV) modules which usually come in the form of roof mounted panels. Solar photovoltaic technology has come a long way since its first use although it remains a costly source of power. However, growing supply and increasing competition amongst installers has meant costs have fallen and generous feed-in tariffs mean that pay back periods have recently fallen dramatically to below 10 years in some situations. With a maintenance-free life of over 20 years, PV will be the most attractive renewable energy option for many. Since your energy demand and the output from the panels will seldom match, you sell your excess electricity into the grid and use the income generated to offset the cost of your grid supply when your demand exceeds the amount being generated. Alternatively you can store surplus energy in a battery bank for supply during such periods.

Renewable Energy Projects

Solar water heating panels provide a reliable means of harnessing solar power. Roof panels typically heat a domestic hot water system. Installed costs are between £500 and £1,500 for a DIY installation or between £3,500 and £5,000 for a commercially fitted system. Dating as far back as 1911, this technology has been advanced such that modern day systems can provide almost all of your average domestic hot water in summer and approximately 50% year round. The pay back is long, particularly where water heating is alternatively done by mains gas or heat pump, but the proposed Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) should bring the payback down below ten years. It is hard to place a value on the greater pleasure of the sun-heated bath!

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