Solar energy is rapidly gaining market share, as more and more governments around the world encourage their citizens into producing their own energy, through tax benefits and subsidies for people using this sustainable source of energy. The environmental benefits are obvious, and due to evolving technology, solar power can provide energy to your home and actually make money through the Feed-in Tariff.
It is important to have a basic understanding of how the solar system works, and how it will affect the supply of electricity to the device and appliances that run in your home. Homes with solar power and homes with traditional fossil fuel generated electricity both use the same 240 volt alternating current. However, the problem is that there are differences in the equipment, and wiring used by both sources of power.
When setting up your home for solar power, the wiring systems involved are a fairly specialised and should not be installed by anyone who has not received training. If wiring is not done properly, electrical devices that run from a solar powered home may not function safely. You also need to ensure your solar panel system is installed by an MCS accredited installer otherwise you will not be able to claim the Feed-in Tariff.
You may have to pay for the new systems used to safely power and distribute the electricity generated by your solar panels. But as previously mentioned, the Feed-in Tariff system means any initial expense would pay for itself in just a few years. Even if you have free solar panels installed and do not benefit from the Feed-in Tariff, the amount of money saved on energy bills, would justify any expenditure.
There are many companies across the UK who will install a roof top solar system on your home, free of charge allowing you to save on your electricity bills without the initial cost of buying the solar panels. Therefore solar panels are likely to increase the value of your home because it will not only be more attractive to any future residents for being more energy efficient but they will continue to save on their electricity bills making the home cheaper to run than a home without solar panels.
By installing solar panels you will be doing your part in preventing climate change, and saving money in the process. With around 50% of your electricity coming from the sun, you and your family can reduce the cost of your electricity bills, and therefore your carbon footprint, in half.