So long as your house is suitable for a solar array (i.e. you have a south-facing, 30-40o tilted roof that isn’t in the shade), you should see a return on your investment given time.
However, there isn’t a single super panel that’s perfect for everyone, so you’ll have to establish your specifications to know which model is best suited for your home. These include:
- How much you’re willing to spend
- How much space is available on your roof
- Your electricity demands.
The table below should indicate which size solar installation you’ll need, how much it would cost and how much you’d be earning and saving each year.
| Size | Panels | Weight | Space m2 | Cost Approx £k | Output kWh | Annual System Benefits (savings and SEG)* |
| 2.4kW | 6 | 180kg | 9 | 4.5 | 2040 | 309.06 |
| 3.2kW | 8 | 240kg | 12 | 5.1 | 2720 | 412.08 |
| 4kW | 10 | 300kg | 15 | 5.7 | 3400 | 515.1 |
| 4.8kW | 12 | 360kg | 18 | 6.5 | 4080 | 618.12 |
| 5.6kW | 14 | 420kg | 21 | 7.3 | 4760 | 721.14 |
*assumes 35% consumption and 65% export. Elec = 34p ; SEG = 5p
Which criteria should I look out for?
It’s important not to get hung up on power rating (measured in Watts) of a solar panel. The power rating shows the maximum electric output under best-case conditions, so it doesn’t reflect how much electricity will be generated in typically British ‘grey and cloudy’ conditions.
Efficiency is one of the best indicators of a good quality solar panel. The only issue with high-efficiency solar panels is that they come with a greater cost, so be sure to weigh up the initial payment with the return over time.
Homes with limited roof space may want to go for more expensive, higher efficiency solar panels: their higher output-to-surface area will make up for the solar array’s small size.
Homes with a larger roof can opt for cheaper, lower efficiency solar panels – the initial cost will be lower, and the large surface area will counteract the solar panels’ poor efficiency.
Thinking about installing solar panels?
With energy prices at record levels, there has never been a better time to invest in Solar Panel and Battery Storage solutions. We offer Solar Panels, Battery Storage solutions and a combination of both. Whatever your requirements we’ll have a solution that’s right for you and your home.
We are currently experiencing high levels of demand for these solutions so don’t delay. Give us a call on 0161 768 1143 and speak with one of our friendly experts or click here to find out more.
