Solar Panel Installation Oxford Oxfordshire (OX1): If you are considering investing in solar panels, either for thermal (hot water) or electric generation, for your Oxford home or property, it is useful to know a little about the advantages and drawbacks of what's involved. There's no doubt that the time looks right for taking this step, with Government grants and deals to reduce the costs involved, and the possibility of selling back unused electricity through the Smart Export Guarantee scheme.
SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS
The expression Solar Photovoltaic (PV) applies to the production of electricity by capturing the sun's energy. Decent results and energy production can be accomplished by photovoltaic panels installed on your home or property in Oxford. A correctly positioned solar power installation can lower your energy bills and even generate a small income through the Smart Export Guarantee scheme (SEG).
The Green Homes Grant is a recently introduced scheme to help homeowners to lower their carbon footprint and save energy, and it can be used to offset the cost of a solar powered installation. You're able to apply for this grant, which was introduced in July 2020, of between five and ten thousand pounds if you are applying certain green energy improvements to your house. Couple the Green Homes Grant scheme with the Smart Export Guarantee scheme and you will realise why now is the ideal time to seriously think about a solar PV installation for your home in Oxford.
SOLAR THERMAL SYSTEMS
Irrespective of the size of your household, the demand for hot water is always there. In wintertime, even during the reduced sunlight hours and weaker strength of sun, it will successfully heat up your water and lower the amount of energy needed to bring it up to the right temperature for use. In summer it is even entirely possible to have all of your hot water requirements met with a solar thermal system fitted.
Schemes available to Oxford homeowners include the RHI (Renewable Heat Incentive). After its initial trial in the commercial sector, the RHI scheme was made available for residential use on the 9th April 2014. It offers a seven year support program for homeowners changing to renewable methods of heating, including photovoltaic thermal systems. A quarterly cash payment will be received by qualified subscribers for the period of the scheme.
CONSIDERATIONS FOR SOLAR
If you think you are ready to install solar panels on your property in Oxford, you ought to think about the following issues:
- Will installing solar panels affect my house value? - As reported by the Homeowners Association, it has been found that positive and negative variations have occurred in the past owing to solar panel installations on homes. As understanding grows concerning environment and climate changes, it's been noticed that the positive effects on property prices have increased.
- Does the roof of your home get sunlight throughout the day, or is it partly shaded by buildings or vegetation? - You want as much sunlight as possible for maximum effectiveness, and any shade will reduce the energy gains from the solar panels.
- Have you got a roof facing towards the south or south-west? - Solar PV panels need to face in this direction in the Northern Hemisphere to absorb the maximum amount of energy from the sun's rays.
- Are you the owner of a home that might require planning permission to install solar panels? - In the vast majority of cases you'll not need planning permission on your Oxford property for solar energy panels on the roof. Your local planning office will offer guidance on planning permission if your property reside in a conservation area, have a flat roof or own a listed building.
THE BENEFITS OF SOLAR
Extra Income - Any extra electrical power your solar panel installation generates can be sold back to your energy provider through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), Government funded scheme. The SEG (Smart Export Guarantee) scheme offers 3 monthly payments direct to you, or can be credited towards your electric bills. This is in the shape of a short contract which is set up between the property owner and the electricity supplier. The short term aspect of the contract is beneficial to consumers because it permits them to swap providers for the cheapest tariffs as soon as the contract comes to an end.
Reduced Bills - There's no charge at all for the largest source of energy we know: namely the sun. So why don't you make good use of this energy in your home? As soon as you have paid for the installation of your solar PV panels you'll discover that your power bills will be less expensive. A standard solar PV system can save you between £90 - £370 each year on your bills (depending on your circumstances), although the size and extent of your specific solar installation will impact on this.
Lowering Your Carbon Footprint - The production of green, renewable energy is possible by installing either a solar thermal or solar PV system on your property in Oxford. The energy produced by solar panel installations creates no emissions or pollutants and could save nearly two tonnes of harmful carbon emissions from your property in Oxford each year.
Noise Pollution - Solar PV installations do not make any sound at all. Other renewable energy solutions, such as wind generators, can make a noise which some people in Oxford find distressing. The fact that thermal and solar PV systems in Oxford don't have any moving parts during operation, there is no noise made by the equipment or panels.
Maintenance Free - Among the most attractive characteristics of solar energy systems is that they're almost maintenance free. Modern solar PV panels should continue to provide electricity and hot water for something like 25 years, as long as they're kept clean and shade-free. A solar installation with a battery storage system will require more maintenance than a basic grid tie system, but the efficiency, storage and life of battery packs is improving as this technology advances.
FINDING A CERTIFIED SOLAR PANEL INSTALLER
If a solar PV system has been fitted to the properties of any of your neighbours, family or friends, you could ask them for recommendations and references. But, whatever happens be sure to get at least 3 quotations from local contractors. To reduce the initial cost of purchasing and installing your solar powered system, it is prudent to enquire about any grants that are currently available in the area for green energy schemes, whilst you are gathering your quotations.
Before you make your mind up about any specific solar panel installer, you should always ask to see some details about previously accomplished projects. A reputable and professional solar panel installer in Oxford will have a photographic portfolio to showcase their work on all sorts of properties.
A professional solar installation company in Oxford should have affiliation with or membership of at least one alternative energy association. These offer qualifications, support and training relating to all working practices, equipment and health & safety for every aspect of solar, and sustainable energy generating systems. Membership to one of the following sustainable energy organisations should be a requirement before hiring any solar panel installation contractor in Oxford.
STA (Solar Trade Association) - Invariably at the spearhead of sustainable technology, the Solar Trade Association (STA) works along with industry, Government agencies and local authorities to offer solar solutions all around the British Isles. The STA is a well-respected trade organisation within the solar generation industry and its members range from massive multi-nationals to small residential installers.
REA (Renewable Energy Association) - In the UK, the REA is the premier trade body for solar technicians working within the green energy and clean technology sector. The REA uses its influence to sway governmental policy with regard to renewable energy solutions, and provides training facilities for more than 500 member companies as it works towards a zero carbon economy in the UK.
MCS - Only Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) certified companies should undertake solar energy system installations in Oxford. Approval by the MCS for a particular company indicates that it's team has been trained in the proper installation techniques, and that its renewable energy equipment is fully approved and of good quality. The Microgeneration Certification Scheme champions and supports the following sustainable technologies: air source heat pumps, solar photovoltaic, battery storage systems and biomass.
You should have no problem uncovering solar panel services in Oxford, and adjacent places such as: Garsington, Littlemore, Wolvercote, Headington, Cumnor, Sunningwell, Wytham, Sandford, Eynsham, Kennington, Chawley, Summertown, Barton, Marston, Osney, Cowley, Risinghurst, Iffley, Whitecross. Areas with postcodes like OX1 1ZD, OX1 1DF, OX1 1BT, OX1 1LU, OX1 1QF, OX1 1QL, OX1 1PE, OX1 1QT, OX1 1BU, and OX1 1LT are also covered. If a solar panel installer has the telephone code 01865 and the postcode OX1, you can safely assume that they come from the local area. This could be something to confirm if you wish to make certain that you hire a locally based solar panel installer. Local residents can access these and other similar services anytime they need to. To acquire specifics on solar panel installation in your area simply click on the "QUOTE" banner.
Ground Source Heating Systems
Homes and buildings in Oxford can be warmed by ground source heating systems, which use the steady earth temperature as a heat source, also called geothermal heating systems. This renewable energy source is highly efficient and eco-friendly because it reduces carbon emissions and eliminates the dependence on fossil fuels.
A geothermal heating system works by circulating a mixture of antifreeze and water through pipes buried deep in the ground, which absorbs heat from the earth and carries it to a heat pump. By amplifying the heat, the heat pump distributes it throughout the building.
Although they are more expensive to install initially than conventional heating systems, geothermal heating systems can save home and business owners money in the long run by reducing maintenance costs and energy bills. These systems are a smart investment for those who want a long-term and sustainable heating solution, as they are highly durable and can last for several years.
By reversing the heating process, ground source heating systems can cool buildings in the summertime, providing both heating and cooling as an additional benefit. Further reduction of energy costs and increased overall efficiency can be accomplished with the help of this dual functionality. In summation, ground source heating systems are an eco-friendly and sustainable solution for heating and cooling homes and buildings in Oxford, with durability and long-term cost savings.
Are Solar Panels Worth the Investment?
Many of us have heard about solar energy and are aware that it's good for the environment, but lots of people really don't know exactly why. Like all things, there are pluses and there are minuses, and you need to be aware of both before spending any money.
It's a fact that making use of solar panels can significantly lower one's energy bill, and this is one of the major incentives for property owners in Oxford. A fantastic benefit of using solar panels is that you can say goodbye to those cash-draining monthly electricity bills. The drawback, however, is that the cost of switching to solar can be rather high. Yes, you will have free power, but your initial monthly savings over a period will go towards recovering your substantial initial cost for the panels and installation. Your payback period will evidently take longer if you are a light user of electrical energy, compared with someone who is a heavy user. You could be fortunate and get help with the initial cost from an unforeseen source, as your government could extend an incentive for you to set up solar panels.
Numerous people right now are interested in lessening their carbon footprint, and solar energy scores handsomely in this area. Solar energy generation does not include any burning or emissions, unlike conventional fuel sources, which is the reason it's called "clean" - the direct advantage being that it does not damage the environment and our health. Global warming and acid rain are two leading environmental problems, and solar energy doesn't contribute to these at all. Solar energy is sustainable and doesn't get all used up as the sun goes on to give out energy and will continue to do so for a very long time.
In addition, solar energy is rather discreet as it can be put on the top of buildings, meaning it's not an eyesore unlike wind turbines; but, if you have solar panels on the ground, they can blight the landscape just like wind turbines, so it's crucial to think about their location and placement. Obviously, if direct sun cannot reach the panels, they would be ineffectual, so they should be situated properly. They're also discreet in regards to noise and smell, since they produce no noise and no awful scents.
Still one more great thing about solar systems is that as soon as they're set up, you can essentially forget them, because they require no upkeep. There are issues with solar energy, one of the most crucial being they cannot make energy when it's nighttime. To have energy when it's dark, you can put in a battery, or other back-up system. The only cost here is for putting them in place, since they can be recharged at no cost to you with solar energy.
You should most definitely look into solar energy as an alternative energy source. In addition to the initial expenses, it costs you nothing, and it's environmentally friendly. If high energy costs are a concern for you, and you wish to lessen your carbon footprint, solar energy provides a terrific solution.
Solar Panel Batteries
A solar panel battery can help you store the solar energy you generate with your solar panels. This stored energy can then be used for powering your home, phone or appliances. The size and capacity of your battery will be based on your needs. For instance, one battery won't be sufficient if you often use air conditioning or a refridgerator.
When buying a solar battery, you should also look at the DoD (Depth of Discharge) of the battery. Higher DoD means a longer-lasting battery. Batteries that are degraded or over discharged will have less energy stored and will be less cost-efficient. The quantity of energy which is available to use depends on the capacity of your solar batteries.
The charged batteries can then be used to supply power when the sun's out and during the evening. This should save money on your power bill because you won't be paying for electricity when you don't have it. Moreover, solar panels will continue to generate power even during cloudy days. You can also get payments back from the utility provider for the energy you do not use. This is very beneficial if you're if you're intending to use your panels as backup power during power cuts.
Solar Inverters
A solar inverter is a crucial component in any solar PV system, because it converts DC electricity into AC. The solar inverter is what makes it possible for you to use the energy generated by your solar panels by converting the DC electricity into AC. Without a solar inverter, you can't turn your solar energy into a safe source of power for your home, plain and simple.
The performance of a solar panel system is limited by its weakest part, hence, an excellent inverter is a necessary component of your panel setup. An outstanding inverter is a vital aspect of your panel setup for maximising the energy produced by your solar panels. Four fundamental forms of solar inverters are available to accompany your solar panels: string inverters, micro-inverters, power optimisers and hybrid inverters. A professional solar panel installer can help you determine the best solar inverter for your unique system.
Solar Panel Cleaning Oxford
I'd imagine that the very last thing on your mind when you are looking to install solar PV panels in Oxford, is precisely how you're going to clean them. Actually, this is quite an important consideration right from the get-go, since having dirty solar panels can have a negative impact on their efficiency and cost you money in the long run. Automatic cleaning systems are available for solar panels, and if this is of interest, it is a good idea to have them mounted simultaneously with your panels, although of course this is going to push up your initial bill.
You should not simply settle for the widely thought belief that the action of the rain will keep your panels completely clean. Over the months they'll undergo a build-up of grease and grime that will certainly have an adverse effect on the functionality of your solar panels, although they may look reasonably clean from ground level. So a major accumulation of filth doesn't occur, a regular cleaning agenda will need to be set up. With there being lots of ingenious cleaning attachments for jet washers (such as Karcher), you could be in a position to do the cleaning on your own. Or you might prefer to make an arrangement with a local Oxford solar panel cleaning company, or perhaps even a window cleaner (many of them offer this service). (Tags: Solar Panel Cleaning Oxford)
Solar PV Upgrades
The long-term effectiveness and efficiency of a solar power system depend on upgrading its solar PV components. By upgrading existing solar PV panels as technology advances, their output can be increased, their durability improved, and their lifespan extended. A common upgrade for solar power systems is the replacement of outdated solar panels with newer, more efficient models. Along with the increase in electricity generation, there is a corresponding decrease in the solar array's overall size. In addition to other upgrades, energy storage solutions, like batteries, can be installed to store excess energy generated during the day for use at night or during periods of low sunlight. By upgrading inverters or incorporating micro-inverters, the system's ability to convert energy efficiently can be enhanced. Solar PV upgrades can provide benefits for both domestic and commercial users, as well as utility-scale solar power plants. Upgrades can enhance the energy grid's reliability by reducing maintenance costs and downtime while maximizing energy output.
Applications of Solar Panels
- Rooftop Solar PV Systems
- Solar Vehicles
- Solar Powered Planes
- Photovoltaic Power Stations
- Solar Cooking
- Solar Lighting
- Solar Heating
- Solar Hybrid Power Systems
- Standalone PV Systems
- Solar Portables
Oxford Solar Panel Tasks
Your chosen Oxford solar panel engineers will be able to help you out with a range of low-carbon energy services including Tesla Powerwall installation, thermal solar panels, cheap solar panels in Oxford, batteries & smart grids, solar system safety checks, solar energy advice, LED lighting Oxford, solar panels with battery, solar panel fitting, energy storage systems, solar PV inverters, electric heating, solar hot water system installation, shower heat recovery, solar panel mounting, solar panel bird proofing, solar panel replacement, air source heat pumps, electric vehicle charging, EV charging Oxford, solar panel repairs, energy efficiency upgrades, photovoltaic solar panels, the installation of solar panels Oxford, solar panel relocation, solar thermal heating, 200 watt solar panels Oxford, industrial solar panel installations, solar panel maintenance Oxford, ground source heating systems in Oxford, solar thermal energy solutions, solar energy grants in Oxford, solar panel cleaning, solar panel installations, residential solar panel installation, and other similar services in Oxford, Oxfordshire (OX1). These are just a handful of the tasks that are handled by people specialising in solar panels. Oxford contractors will be delighted to keep you abreast of their full range of solar services.
Family & Friends
Getting recommendations from friends and family is always a great help when you're looking for a good solar panel installer in Oxford. Person to person references are often the most effective way identify someone who is perfect for your needs, and equally can filter out a cowboy contractor or a company that has a dissatisfactory record for service.
If you know that an acquaintance or member of your family has used a particular contractor, you can get some first hand insights into their punctuality and reliability. They will also be able to inform you if something went wrong, and how swiftly any faults were addressed. They will be in a position to let you know how the final price when compared with the original quote they were provided with, or if the company offers a guaranteed price arrangement.
Ultimately, the people who you know and can depend on are your friends and family members, so in relation to advice, go to them. If they have had a poor experience with a certain contractor or company, they may well be reluctant to discuss them in any great detail. And many folks, rather than 'maligning' a second-rate company who they've had dealings with previously, may even offer some alternative contractor, as they are happier talking about a good business than an inferior one.
Solar Panels Near Oxford
Also find: Kennington solar panel installers, Littlemore solar panel installers, Whitecross solar panel installers, Sunningwell solar panel installers, Garsington solar panel installers, Marston solar panel installers, Sandford solar panel installers, Barton solar panel installers, Iffley solar panel installers, Summertown solar panel installers, Cowley solar panel installers, Cumnor solar panel installers, Wolvercote solar panel installers, Eynsham solar panel installers, Osney solar panel installers, Chawley solar panel installers, Risinghurst solar panel installers, Headington solar panel installers, Wytham solar panel installers and more. All these villages and towns are catered for by companies who fit solar panels. Local householders can get solar installation price quotes by clicking here.
Solar Panel Installer Services Oxford
- Domestic Solar Panels
- Solar Panel Installers
- Solar Panel Advice
- Cheap Solar Panels
- Solar Panels
- Solar Panel Cleaning
- 300 watt Solar Panels
- Renewable Energy Solutions
- Solar Panel Replacement
- Solar Water Heating
- Solar Panel Batteries
- Solar Panel Services
- Solar Panel Repairs
- Solar Panel Installation
More Oxford Services
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Solar Panel Installation in OX1 area, telephone code 01865.
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