Benefits of Solar Panel Installations
Reduce your electricity bills
A solar energy system for your home can reduce your reliance on the grid and help you save on your electricity bill!
Property Value
Having solar panels installed at your home could add value to your property! Therefore making your property more attractive to potential buyers if you choose to sell.
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Low maintenance costs
Solar energy systems generally don't require much maintenance!
How much does Solar cost to install?
The cost of installing a solar panel system in the UK can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size of the system, the type of panels you choose, your location, and whether you opt for additional features like battery storage. Here are some of the key costs involved in installing a solar panel system in the UK:
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Solar Panels: The cost of the solar panels themselves is a significant portion of the total expense. Prices vary depending on the quality, brand, and efficiency of the panels. You could expect to pay anywhere from £6,000 to £10,000 or more for a typical residential installation.
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Inverter: Solar inverters are necessary to convert the DC electricity generated by the panels into usable AC electricity for your home.
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Mounting and Racking: You'll need mounting and racking systems to secure the panels to your roof. This cost can vary depending on the complexity of your roof and the type of mounting system needed.
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Installation Labour: Labour costs for the installation can vary based on the size and complexity of the system.
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Electrical Work: If your electrical system needs upgrades or modifications to accommodate the solar panels, this will add to the cost.
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Battery Storage (optional): If you choose to include battery storage as part of your solar system, you'll need to budget for the cost of batteries.
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Permitting and Inspection: Depending on your local regulations, you may need permits and inspections, which could incur additional fees.
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Maintenance: While solar panels are relatively low-maintenance, you should budget for occasional cleaning and potential maintenance or repairs.
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Feed-in Tariff (if applicable): The UK's Feed-in Tariff scheme closed to new applicants in 2019, but if you were already receiving payments under this scheme, you may need to factor this into your calculations.
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Energy Savings: While not a direct cost, it's essential to consider the long-term energy savings from your solar panel system. Over time, the electricity generated by your panels can offset your utility bills, providing a return on your investment.
Is there funding available?
Yes, you can now receive grants for solar panels via Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan.
This government scheme can provide you with up to £6,000 towards a solar panel system for your home, at 0% interest.
Most community organisations and charities can also receive funding for solar panels and other renewable energy sources with the Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES).
The maximum amount of money available for a solar panel installation loan is £4,500, which is close to the typical cost of a 3.5 kWp solar PV system.
The maximum amount of money available via the government grants is £1,250 for solar panels and £1.250 for battery installations.
The total funding available for solar and battery is £7,000.
Who's eligible?
All homeowners in Scotland are allowed to apply, and each applicant’s credit rating is assessed to determine if they are eligible. Please note that successful applicants have to pay an administrative fee, which is 1.5% of the total amount being borrowed.
The Scottish government suggests that you don’t start installing solar panels until you’ve officially received the loan offer in writing. If you start installing them beforehand, you won't eligible for the loan.
If you receive a loan, you’ll be given up to six months to borrow the money and have the solar panels installed.
How to apply
To apply for the loan, you need to call Home Energy Scotland on 0808 808 2282. You can also ask for a call back or for an email.
You'll then be advised on which option is best for you. When you've made a decision, you'll have to complete an online application form.
For more information on funding through Home Energy Scotland visit https://www.homeenergyscotland.org/funding/grants-loans/overview/
ECO4 Grants
For More information Contact us!
The ECO 4 grant is to be targeted to ensure the least energy-efficient homes are brought up to a minimum efficiency standard.
From January 2023, the scheme is focussed on upgrading properties with EPC ratings of E-G and improving these to a minimum rating of D as outlined in the ECO4 mission statement.
The great news is that for properties that meet certain criteria, the grants available are much improved and we have overseen projects where individual homes have qualified for total upgrades of £30,000+ with savings of up to 70% on annual energy bills!
To check your eligibility visit https://eco4.scot/ for more information.