The current economy, coupled with cold winters and soaring energy prices has made the thought of renewable energy very attractive to many of us. We all need to save as much cash as well can, so it’s no surprise that so many people are talking about solar energy – once only for the very wealthy, this form of power has become much more common in recent years, and it’s a great way to help out with the cost of running a home.

Solar energy catches the sun’s energy using photovoltaic cells (PV). The cells convert the sunlight into electricity, which in turn is utilised within the home. PV cells don’t actually require direct sunlight to work; electricity can still be generated on a cloudy day.

The government have introduced a tariff in the hope that it will entice more people to go ‘solar’. As much as 1,000 could be made, plus a saving of 120 per year on your electricity bill. The initial outlay may cost between 8,500 and 13,000 for a system generating 2-4Wp output, but the government’s new ‘feed-in’ tariff could be a nice little earner (the environmental benefits speak for themselves).

The government have claimed that they will pay 43.1p for every unit of electricity generated by you, even if it is for personal use. You will receive a further 3p/kWh from your energy supplier for each unit you export back to the electricity grid which isn’t used on site.
This will pay for itself within 9 years and make you more of a return than the bank can offer you on any interest account.

If you perhaps do not have the funds readily available to invest in this scheme, there are companies around which offer free installation. They essentially rent your roof space in return for a discount on your electricity bill, which can be as much as 20%. You may be locked into a 25 year contract which may pose problems should you either wish, or have, to move home.

There are certain criteria which your home needs to fulfil in order to be considered for this scheme. Your roof needs to have at least 30 metres of usable space, be south facing to exact co-ordinates and have full exposure to the sun. If the surface is in shadow for parts of the day, your system will generate far less energy.

The roof also needs to be strong enough to support the solar panels, as they are not light. If you’re not sure, then it’s best to check wit ha construction expert.

Planning permission is not required for most solar electricity systems, as long as they are under a certain size. As with most things it is always prudent to check with your local planning office if you are unsure, especially if you are living in a listed building.

The tariff mentioned previously is payable whether your panels are connected to the grid or not: the only caveat is that you sign a declaration, stating that all of the electricity that you do generate will be used and not wasted.

If you need some expert advice, then speak to trusted conveyancing solicitors today.