Many homeowners focus on installing solar panels, but without a battery system, a lot of the energy they generate goes to waste or is sent back to the grid instead of being used when it's needed most.
When adding battery storage, you take full control of your electricity, storing surplus power during the day and using it when the sun isn’t shining, even if that’s in the evening, on cloudy days, or during a power cut.
Glow Electric believes that solar energy isn’t just about cutting costs, it’s about energy independence. With the right solar and battery setup, you rely less on the grid, protect yourself from rising energy prices, and ensure your home always has access to clean, reliable power.
So if you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint, future-proof your home, or simply save money on your electricity bills, our solar panel and battery storage solutions are designed to make renewable energy work for you.
Switching to solar with battery storage isn’t just for those living off-grid or in sun-soaked climates. Even in the UK, where weather can be unpredictable, solar energy is a smart investment.
What Are Solar Panels and How Do They Work?
Solar panels, or photovoltaic (PV) panels, capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. This process involves semiconductor materials, typically silicon, that release electrons when exposed to sunlight, generating an electric current. This direct current (DC) is then converted into alternating current (AC) by an inverter, making it suitable for household use.
Solar panels are good for homeowners aiming to reduce their carbon footprint and energy costs. With advancements in technology, modern solar panels are more efficient and affordable than ever, making them a viable option even in areas with less consistent sunlight.
Combining Solar Panels with Battery Storage
Combining solar panels with battery storage offers several significant benefits for homeowners:
1. Increased Energy Utilisation
Integrating battery storage with your solar panels, you can store excess energy generated during sunny periods for use during evenings or cloudy days. This approach maximises the use of your self-generated electricity, reducing reliance on the grid and ensuring that surplus energy doesn't go to waste. For instance, a retiree in Swindon installed 12 solar panels alongside a 4.6kWh battery system, leading to a 50% reduction in her electricity bills.
2. Cost Savings
Utilising stored energy during peak hours can significantly lower your electricity bills. Additionally, as of 1 May 2023, domestic solar panel installations in Northern Ireland benefit from a 0% VAT rate, reducing the overall investment cost.
This financial incentive, combined with the savings on energy bills, makes the adoption of solar panels with battery storage a cost-effective solution.
3. Energy Security
Battery storage provides a reliable backup power source during outages, ensuring that essential appliances remain operational. This added layer of energy security is particularly beneficial in areas prone to power cuts, offering peace of mind that your home will remain powered even during grid disruptions.
4. Environmental Impact
Reducing dependence on grid electricity lowers your carbon footprint, contributing to environmental conservation. Generating and storing your own renewable energy, you decrease the demand for fossil fuel-based power, playing a part in the global effort to combat climate change. Homes built to low-carbon standards, equipped with technologies like solar panels and battery storage, can save occupants significant amounts annually in energy bills while reducing carbon emissions.
Incorporating battery storage with your solar panel system not only enhances energy efficiency and cost savings but also promotes a sustainable and self-sufficient lifestyle.
How Much Do Solar Panels and Battery Storage Cost in the UK?
Investing in solar panels and battery storage in the UK is a significant decision, both environmentally and financially. Understanding the associated costs can help you make an informed choice.
Solar Panels:
A standard 4kW solar panel system, suitable for the average UK home, typically costs between £5,000 and £6,000. This estimate includes both the panels and installation. Such a system can generate approximately 3,400kWh annually, closely aligning with the average household's electricity consumption. By producing your own energy, you can reduce your reliance on the grid and lower your monthly bills.
Battery Storage:
Adding a battery storage system allows you to store excess energy generated during the day for use during peak hours or at night. The cost of a solar battery varies based on capacity and technology. On average, a 5kWh battery suitable for typical household use costs around £5,000. This investment enables greater energy independence and can further decrease your energy expenses.
Combined Investment:
Combining both systems, a homeowner might expect to invest approximately £10,000 to £11,000. While this represents a substantial upfront cost, the long-term benefits include reduced energy bills and potential protection against future energy price increases. Additionally, properties equipped with renewable energy solutions may experience an increase in property value.
Glow Electric's Services:
Glow Electric specialises in providing tailored solar panel and battery storage solutions to meet your unique energy needs. Our services include:
- Consultation: Assessing your property to design an efficient and effective solar energy system.
- Installation: Professional installation of high-quality solar panels and battery storage systems, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
- Maintenance: Ongoing support and maintenance services to keep your system running smoothly and efficiently.
Are There Financial Incentives for Installing Solar Panels and Battery Storage?
Yes, there are financial incentives available to UK homeowners:
- VAT Relief: As of 1 May 2023, installing solar panels and battery storage systems in Northern Ireland qualifies for a 0% VAT rate, reducing the overall cost.
- Government Grants and Loans: The UK government has announced plans to offer grants and affordable loans to homeowners for installing renewable energy solutions, including solar panels and batteries. This initiative aims to make clean energy more accessible and reduce national carbon emissions.
How Long Do Solar Panels Last?
One of the most common questions homeowners ask before investing in solar energy is how long solar panels last. The good news is that solar panels are built to last for decades, making them a long-term and reliable energy solution. Most high-quality solar panels come with a 25 to 30-year warranty, but they can continue generating electricity well beyond that timeframe.
Over time, solar panels do experience a slight reduction in efficiency. On average, solar panels lose about 0.5% of their efficiency per year. This means that even after 25 years, most panels will still operate at around 85% of their original capacity. This slow decline in efficiency ensures that solar panels remain a valuable investment for the long term.
Another important factor is maintenance. Solar panels are designed to be low-maintenance, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dust, debris, and bird droppings that may block sunlight. Unlike other home energy systems, solar panels have no moving parts, which means there’s less risk of mechanical failure. Glow Electric offers regular maintenance services to ensure your solar system continues to perform at its best.
The durability of solar panels also makes them a smart financial investment. With rising energy costs, having a system that provides free electricity for decades can lead to significant savings over time. Plus, homes with solar panels often increase in value, making them more attractive to potential buyers if you ever decide to sell.
Glow Electric uses top-tier solar technology that is designed for longevity and efficiency. We carefully select and install panels that offer the best performance, ensuring that your investment in solar energy is both cost-effective and sustainable for years to come.
Are Solar Panels Worth It in the UK?
Many people assume that solar panels aren’t as effective in the UK due to its unpredictable weather. However, modern solar technology has improved significantly, making solar panels a viable investment even in cloudy conditions. Despite the UK’s reputation for grey skies, solar panels can still generate enough electricity to power a significant portion of your home’s energy needs.
Solar panels don’t need direct sunlight to work, they generate electricity using daylight. While output is higher on sunny days, they still function well when it’s overcast.
In fact, countries like Germany, which has a similar climate to the UK, are among the world’s top solar energy producers. With advancements in solar panel efficiency, even a modest system can help reduce energy costs and reliance on the grid.
Another key factor in determining whether solar panels are worth it is the increasing cost of electricity. UK energy prices have been rising steadily, making it more appealing to produce your own electricity rather than relying solely on the national grid. Homeowners who install solar panels now can lock in lower electricity costs and protect themselves against future price hikes.
Glow Electric, provides expert guidance on how to make the most out of solar energy, from system design to installation and ongoing maintenance. Our team ensures that your system is built to maximise efficiency, regardless of weather conditions, so you can get the best return on your investment.