" A basic law of thermodynamics is that energy is never actually created only converted. Solar panels convert the suns rays into electricity or heat rather than creating it. "
There are 2 types of solar panels, which is best?
Yes, both do very different jobs using energy emitted from the sun.
1. Solar heating panels
2. PV electric solar panels.
The one you choose is up to you, but it basically depends on how much you can afford to spend on a solar project. Both technologies now have great incentive schemes to promote usage across the country. Solar grants and feed in tariffs >>
There are also 2 types of solar heating panels
Yes, 1. Glazed flat panels, 2. Evacuated solar tubes. Usually flat panels salesmen will say their system is best and solar tubes salesmen will say the same.
Independent laboratory testing has concluded that evacuated solar tubes perform best in the UK climate and flat panels second. A third type of solar panel called Solartwin use unglazed plastic and rubber panels. This type was one of the lowest performing of all the technologies tested.
Solar panels incentives?
The government feed in tariffs (FIT's and RHI) incentives currently available give yearly returns of over 10% of initial investment. This means you will have paid back for your solar panel system within 8-10 years, and can enjoy another 15-17 years of government incentives and free energy.
People decide to go solar for financial reasons, as it currently returns more than ISAs and bonds. Solar panels are now considered a good investment as their returns are inflation adjusted and tax free. Solar grants and feed in tariffs >>
FAQ's about solar heating panels
Why install a new hot water tank with solar heating panels?
Imagine converting your car to LPG, then running it on semi-flat tyres. Your old tank is probably is very in-efficient and scaled up with limescale. To get the most efficiency out of your solar panels system, a new modern super efficient tank is installed to bring your heating system up to modern standards, thus saving you money in the longer term.
Do I need planning permission?
No. Planning permission will not be required for micro generation systems including solar panels installation, unless you live in a listed building. Most councils will probably allow an installation even in these cases.
Can solar be added to a flat roof?
Yes, with an A frame to angle the panels at 20 and 50 degrees from horizontal.
Is there any on-going maintenance required?
A solar panel is kept clean by weathering with a special coating. A simple check every 3-4 years is recommended to check the PH level of the anti-freeze fluid. With pv panels you cqan simply fit it and forget it.
Can solar panels add value to a property?
Yes, your property value will increase in todays climate of high energy pricing. A survey by MORI found people are willing to pay up to £10,000 more for a home built in with good energy saving technologies.
How long does solar technology last?
Solar panels have been around for a 100 years now. Evacuated solar tubes and solar heating panels have a longevity of around 30 years. PV solar panels last much longer with pv solar panels installed in the 60's is still working.
Will solar replace my energy bills fully?
No, you won't totally replace your current energy supply, but you could get reduce dependence massively with a realistic budget and the implementation of different solar panel combinations.
We don't use much hot water, how can solar help us?
Your water in your hot water cylinder needs to stay above 60 deg C (to prevent legionella) so your current heating method is constantly firing up to keep your water above 60 deg C whether you use the water or not. Your boiler or emmersion heater is still heated up, so yes, a solar panel will still benefit you.
What temperatures can I expect from a solar heating panel?
With direct sunlight it's possible to achieve temperatures of 75C (45C hot enough for bathing), but this depends on your micro climate and geographical position within the UK and the type of solar panel system installed. On cloudier days temperastures of 50C will still reduce the need to use your boiler and thus extending it's life span.
How do solar panels work in the winter months?
During cloudy days in winter months you can expect some solar gain, through diffused solar radiation which bathe's the planet even on cloudy days. This means some of the light penetrates cloud cover and is scattered around. With dark and compact clouds, the solar panels will not work at all.
Solar installations will get cheaper with time, won't they?
Unfortunately the outlook is that prices will rise as global demand for the rare earth metals need to manufacture become scarce. A recent artiicle in the Financial Times points out, the cost of energy, resources, materials and manufacturing is rising fast globally.
It's likely that solar panels will never be cheaper than they are now as future panels and installs will consist of inputs {energy + materials} that cost far more than yesterday and today.
Ask our MCS solar installers for details.
Solar panels grants and feed in tariffs & MCS solar installers >>
