Solar Panel Installation East Malling Kent (ME19): With rising energy costs and concerns about the environment, more and more homeowners in East Malling are considering installing solar panels - but precisely what are the advantages and drawbacks? The time certainly looks right for taking such a step, with Government deals and grants to help reduce the costs involved, and the possibility of selling back unused electricity via the SEG (Smart Export Guarantee) scheme.
SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS
The term Solar Photovoltaics (PV) relates to the conversion of solar energy into electrical power. Solar PV becomes a viable solution for the production of electricity in the East Malling region, thanks to its ample sunlight. The adoption of Solar PV empowers East Malling residents to lower their utility bills significantly and potentially achieve a modest return on investment through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). By participating in this scheme, businesses and homeowners can sell surplus electricity back to the energy company, thereby contributing to a sustainable energy future and securing financial advantages.
The Green Homes Grant is a recently introduced scheme to help homeowners save energy and lower their carbon footprint, and can be used to offset the cost of a solar power panels. If you are applying green energy improvements to your home in East Malling, you can apply for this grant, which was revealed in July 2020, of between five and ten thousand pounds. So, if you'd like to install solar panels onto the roof of your East Malling property for much less than the true cost, and furthermore get paid a small income from the electricity that they produce, all you have to do is incorporate the financial help of the Green Homes Grant with the benefits of the SEG.
SOLAR THERMAL SYSTEMS
Every home and business requires hot water, so why not generate it from the sun's rays? Even during wintertime there is enough sunlight to preheat your water supply and thus reduce the quantity of electricity or gas consumed to take the water up to temperature. During the summer season, a correctly fitted solar thermal system will possibly fulfill all of your hot water requirements.
Solar thermal installations can also be included in the RHI (Renewable Heat Incentive) scheme. The scheme, which was previously only open to businesses, was expanded for household use on the 9th April 2014, to motivate homeowners to change over to renewable solutions. Lasting for seven years, it is a scheme of support designed to help anyone who switches to renewable methods of heating. All eligible participants of the RHI will get a quarterly cash return for the length of the scheme.
CONSIDERATIONS FOR SOLAR
Before you even think about starting the installation of a solar panel system onto the roof of your house in East Malling, there are a few details that should be looked at, namely:
- Is your roof facing in a south or south-westerly direction? - This is the best direction to absorb the maximum amount of sunlight on your solar PV.
- Does the installation of solar panels on my property have an effect on its market value? - The basic, but not especially helpful assessment from the Homeowners Association is that solar energy installations can have both a positive and negative impact on the value of your property. As understanding grows about environment and climate changes, it has been seen that the positive impacts on property prices have increased.
- Is planning permission needed for your area or property? - In most situations you won't need planning permission for the installation of solar panels to your home in East Malling. Only if your property is in a conservation area, is listed or if you have a flat roof will you need to check the constraints that may exist with your local authority.
- Is your home's roof shaded during the day time by trees, buildings etc? - You need full sunlight for maximum efficiency, and any shade will reduce the energy generated by the solar panels.
THE BENEFITS OF SOLAR
Generate Income - There's a good chance that your solar panel system will create more electricity than you need. In which case this excess electricity can be sold to your service provider through the Government backed SEG (Smart Export Guarantee). This can be deducted from your quarterly electricity bills, or paid directly to you as a cash payment. The SEG is a Government backed, contract between the house owner and the electricity supplier. Changing companies to get a better deal when the contract is up is quite simple, and you are never irreversibly bound to one electricity company.
Maintenance - What makes solar panels in East Malling even more attractive is the low maintenance requirement over their life span. As long as they're kept clean and shade-free, modern day panels should continue to provide electricity for twenty five years or more. If battery storage is being used as a part of your solar installation in East Malling, these may need to be replaced in time, although as this technology is rapidly advancing, they'll gradually last longer and longer.
Reducing Your Carbon Footprint - The generation of green, renewable energy can be achieved through the installation of either a solar thermal or solar PV system on your property in East Malling. Through the application of such "green" systems, you can knock around 2 tonnes off your polluting carbon emissions annually.
No Noise Pollution - Solar panels and the connected equipment gives off no sound. That is not the case with other renewable energy sources. Wind generators for instance can aggravate and annoy homeowners with the noise that they produce. With solar panel installations in East Malling there are not any moving parts and no noise is produced.
Bill Reduction - The sun is the largest source of free energy that we know. So, why not make the most of all that free energy which is there for the taking? Besides the original expenditure to install your solar panels, there are hardly any maintenance fees to worry about, and you'll begin to notice a lowering of your power bills pretty quickly. Just how much that is will depend on the size of your installation, but even an average sized PV system can provide savings of between £90 - £370 a year on your electricity bill in the East Malling area.
FINDING A CERTIFIED INSTALLER
Try to get a minimum of 3 quotes from different suppliers in East Malling and do not be afraid to ask friends, family and neighbours for advice if they have had a solar panel installation on their home. When obtaining a quotation you should always ask about grants and schemes which might reduce the costs and make solar panel installation more affordable.
The surveyor should also offer a way to see previous solar panel installations on similar houses for you to examine; either via a web page or through a brochure. To present their work on all types of homes, a proficient and professional solar panel installer in East Malling will have a comprehensive photographic portfolio.
A professional solar panel installer in East Malling should have membership or affiliation with at least one green energy trade body. These offer qualifications, support and training on all working practices, health & safety and equipment for every aspect of solar, and sustainable energy generating systems. A prerequisite before you hire any solar panel installation contractor in East Malling, should be membership of one or more of these renewable energy trade bodies.
STA - Working collectively with local councils, industry and Government, along with major figures in the sustainable and solar energy industry, the STA (Solar Trade Association) provides leading-edge technology solutions and training. Its members range from multi-national companies to localised residential installers, and all are widely acknowledged within the solar industry.
The Microgeneration Certification Scheme - Photovoltaic systems ought to be put in by a MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) certified company in East Malling. Accreditation by the MCS for a particular company shows that it's workforce is competent in the proper methods of installation, and that its solar generation equipment is of top quality and fully approved. The MCS supports and encourages the following renewable technologies: biomass, air source heat pumps, solar PV panels and battery storage systems.
REA - In the green energy and clean technology sector, the Renewable Energy Association (or REA) is the United Kingdom's premier organisation for professionals. Boasting approximately 550 member contractors the REA is committed to the prospect of net-zero carbon emissions and provides renewable energy training for its member companies.
Solar panel providers can be obtained in Addington, Ditton, Offham, Ryarsh, Maidstone, Birling, Barming, Teston, Kings Hill, Mereworth, Larkfield, Wateringbury, Aylesford, Wrotham Heath, Quarry Wood, West Malling, in the following postcodes: ME19 6FX, ME19 6DA, ME19 6DD, ME19 6EA, ME19 6YQ, ME19 6JG, ME19 6TZ, ME19 6DU, ME19 6RU, and ME19 6FU, plus in East Malling itself. Solar panel installers from the local area should have the dialling code 01732 and the postcode ME19. This is something to check if you favour hiring a locally based solar panel installer. Local home and business owners are spoilt for choice when looking for solar services.
Solar PV Upgrades
To maintain the efficiency and effectiveness of a solar power system in the long run, upgrading its solar PV components is essential. Upgrading existing solar power panels can increase their output, improve their durability, and extend their lifespan, as technology progresses. Upgrading solar power systems with newer, more efficient solar panels often involves replacing older ones. The overall size of the solar array is reduced as more electricity is generated. One potential upgrade is the installation of energy storage solutions, like batteries, to store excess energy generated during the day for later use. Additionally, micro-inverters or upgraded inverters can improve the system's ability to convert energy efficiently. Furthermore, solar PV upgrades help combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Increasing the efficiency and output of solar power systems can decrease the amount of fossil fuels burned for electricity generation, leading to a reduction in carbon dioxide and other harmful emissions. The fact that solar PV upgrades are environmentally responsible makes them a wise economic decision.
Ground Source Heating Systems
Buildings and homes in East Malling can be warmed by ground source heating systems, which use the steady earth temperature as a heat source, also called geothermal heating systems. Highly efficient and environmentally friendly, this renewable energy source reduces emissions of carbon and eliminates the need to burn fossil fuels.
The circulation of a antifreeze and water mixture through pipes buried deep in the ground allows a ground source heating system to absorb heat from the earth and convey it to a heat pump. The heat pump amplifies the heat and directs it around the building.
Geothermal heating systems may have a higher initial cost than conventional heating systems, but they offer long-term savings to homeowners through reduced energy bills and lower maintenance costs. Moreover, these heating systems are highly durable and can last for decades, making them a smart investment for those seeking a sustainable and long-term heating solution.
Financial incentives, such as tax credits and rebates, offered by some governments can make geothermal heating systems more accessible and affordable for property owners interested in increasing energy efficiency and reducing their carbon footprint. In short, with their sustainable and environmentally friendly nature, ground source heating systems offer a durable and cost-effective solution for heating and cooling homes and buildings in East Malling.
Solar Panel Batteries
If you wish to store the electricity that is generated by your solar panels for later use, this can be done with solar battery storage. Your appliances, phone or home can be powered from these solar batteries. Your precise needs will determine the capacity and size of batteries that you go for. For example, if you often use a fridge or air conditioner, one battery is not sufficient.
The DoD (Depth of Discharge) should certainly be taken into account, when you're purchasing a battery for your energy system. The higher the DoD, the longer the battery should last. The least cost-effective batteries are the ones that are over discharged or degraded, because less electricity is stored. The quantity of electricity which is available to use depends on the capacity of your solar battery.
The fully charged solar battery can then be used when the sun is not out and during the evening. This will save money on your utility bills as you won't be paying for electricity during those down times. In addition, your solar system will continue to provide power even during dark and cloudy days. Any unwanted energy can be sold back the your electricity provider, lowering your bills even further.
Is Your Home Ready for Solar Panels?
Are solar panels right for your home? It's a great question to ask if renewable energy is on your mind. Solar panels offer a fantastic way to lower your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint, but some homes in East Malling are better suited than others. Take a close look at your roof's condition and orientation. Solar panels perform at their best on roofs that are in good shape and receive plenty of sunlight. While south-facing roofs are ideal, east and west-facing options can be effective with proper planning. Make sure to account for any shade from trees or buildings that might affect performance.
Another important aspect to consider is how much energy your home uses. Solar panels are an investment, so knowing your electricity consumption will help you figure out the system size you need. A professional solar installer can assess your energy usage and recommend the best setup for your household. It's also a good opportunity to think about whether you want battery storage, which lets you store extra energy for use at night or on cloudy days, making your home even more efficient.
Don't forget to see if your property is eligible for government incentives or grants to help with installation costs. Taking the time to prepare properly means you'll be on track to enjoy the advantages of renewable energy, all while enhancing your home's value and eco-friendliness. Is your home in East Malling ready to make the switch?
How Many Solar Panels Does it Take to Run a House?
Factors like energy consumption, panel efficiency, location, and available space contribute to the variability in the number of solar panels required to power a house. As a rough estimate, the power output of a typical residential solar panel system in the United Kingdom falls within the range of 3 to 5 kilowatts (kW). Those needs can be met by installing approximately 5 kW of solar panels, assuming an average daily electricity consumption of 20 kilowatt-hours (kWh). Factors such as wattage, efficiency, and other considerations contribute to the variability in the precise number of panels that are needed. It is advisable to seek the expertise of an experienced solar installer who can provide a more precise assessment tailored to your specific requirements and conditions.
Solar Panel Maintenance
If you want a reliable source of green energy for your East Malling property, by all mean consider investing in solar panels. But, don't imagine you can just leave them up there and forget about them, because routine maintenance is vital. You should clean your solar panels twice to four times per year, according to solar panel producers. By using a monitoring system, you can see if your panels are producing less energy than usual. This issue could be caused by dirty panels due to an accumulation of debris. Proper maintenance of your panels will optimise their performance and increase their lifespan. If you have ground mounted solar panels, they are more manageable to maintain than roof mounted ones. Ground-mounted panels can experience issues during heavy rain, such as bounce back and mud splashes, depending on the type of ground they have been installed on. To assess for damage, regular checks should be carried out following thunderstorms, hail or snow.
Solar Panel Inspections East Malling
Solar panel inspections, vital for solar energy systems' efficiency and longevity, are essential. Wiring, photovoltaic modules, inverters, and support structures are subject to a thorough examination during these assessments to pinpoint defects, damage, or issues with performance. Checking for factors like dust, debris, and shading that could hinder energy production, inspectors also carry out checks on safety measures and electrical connections. Preventing expensive repairs and maximising energy output, routine inspections excel at early problem detection. Their contribution extends to bolstering the overall sustainability of renewable energy, as they maintain the reliability of solar installations and ensure efficient solar power utilisation.
Solar Panel Relocation
The process of solar panel relocation includes the movement of existing solar panels to an alternative location. Changes in property ownership, roof repairs, or the need to increase solar energy production are among the most common reasons that may necessitate the relocation of solar panels. During relocation, it is crucial to plan and assess carefully to ensure the secure disconnection, transportation, and reinstallation of the panels at the new location. The successful completion of the task may depend on collaboration between solar installers, roofing professionals and electricians.
Achieving a well-executed solar panel relocation can amplify energy generation and empower businesses or property owners in East Malling to sustain the advantages of solar energy in their new setting. Furthermore, ensuring their continued efficiency and sustainability in the new location, a correctly done relocation can extend the lifespan of the panels. (7302 - Solar Panel Relocation East Malling)
The Many Applications of Solar PV Panels
- Solar Panels on Spacecraft
- Solar Portables
- Solar Pool Heating
- Rooftop Solar Photovoltaic Systems
- Solar Hybrid Power Systems
- Solar Powered Aircraft
- Photovoltaic Power Stations
- Standalone Photovoltaic Systems
- Solar Lighting
- Solar Water Heating
East Malling Solar Panel Tasks
Maybe you came here hunting for basic solar information, but your local East Malling solar panel installer can provide an extensive range of additional services, and these might include the maintenance of solar panels, batteries & smart grids, solar installation advice, solar water heating systems, the supply and installation of solar PV panels, photovoltaic solar panels, biomass boilers East Malling, smart home technology, the repair of solar panels, renewable heat installations, solar thermal installations, air source heat pumps, house solar panels East Malling, energy assessments in East Malling, industrial solar panel installations, solar panel suitability assessments, solar panel installation quotes East Malling, energy efficiency upgrades, solar panel maintenance, solar photovoltaic energy systems in East Malling, solar energy grants, new build solar panels, battery backup systems, electric heating, thermal solar panels, energy storage systems, electric vehicle charging points, solar panel cleaning, solar PV panel installations, solar panels for garages, LED lighting, solar panel mounting, solar system safety checks in East Malling, solar panel installation, residential solar panel installation East Malling, and others. If you have renewable energy requirements in East Malling, that you can't find here here, you can go HERE and enter your details on the quote form provided.
Solar Panels Near East Malling
Also find: Ditton solar panel installers, Larkfield solar panel installers, Offham solar panel installers, West Malling solar panel installers, Teston solar panel installers, Aylesford solar panel installers, Wateringbury solar panel installers, Addington solar panel installers, Quarry Wood solar panel installers, Barming solar panel installers, Mereworth solar panel installers, Wrotham Heath solar panel installers, Kings Hill solar panel installers, Birling solar panel installers, Ryarsh solar panel installers, Maidstone solar panel installers and more. All of these places are served by companies who install solar panels. Local home and property owners can get quotations by going here.
Solar Panel Installer Services East Malling
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Solar Panel Installation in ME19 area, phone code 01732.
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