The United Kingdom has been working hard to reduce its carbon footprint, with the government setting a target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. To reach this goal, there has been a shift towards renewable energy sources, such as wind, water and solar power.
Among these sources, solar energy has become increasingly popular in recent years, with the number of solar panels installed in the UK increasing by 80% in 2022. In this article, we will explore the benefits of using solar panels and why they are an important part of the UK’s energy future.
Clean and Renewable Energy
Solar energy is a clean and renewable source of energy, which means that it does not emit any harmful greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change. Solar panels generate electricity by converting sunlight into usable energy, making it a sustainable and reliable source of power.
This not only helps to reduce the carbon footprint of households and businesses but also contributes to the UK’s efforts to combat climate change. In fact, according to the UK government, solar power alone has the potential to meet up to 13% of the country’s electricity demand by 2030.
Cost Savings
One of the most significant benefits of using solar panels is the potential for cost savings. While the initial cost of installing solar panels can be high, the long-term savings can be substantial.
By generating their own electricity, households and businesses can reduce their reliance on the national grid, which can result in lower energy bills. Additionally, any excess energy generated by the panels can be sold back to the grid, further reducing costs.
The amount a household could save depends on the size of the system they have and the amount of energy they typically use. On average, according to the Energy Savings Trust, a UK household could see savings of up to £514 per year.
The amount of panels you install and the total kilowatts of energy you can generate will affect the amount of money you can save on paying for electricity. The more you can create yourself, the less you have to spend.
The UK government also offers financial incentives for those who install solar panels, such as the Smart Export Guarantee, which pays households and businesses for any excess energy they generate.
To discover more ways to save money, head to GreenMatch for your solar panels. Where you can get more great renewables advice and even find the perfect installer to get you started.
Increased Property Value
Installing solar panels can also increase the value of a property. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in eco-friendly homes, with buyers willing to pay a premium for properties that have green features.
According to a study by the US Department of Energy, homes with solar panels sell 20% faster and for 17% more than homes without solar panels. This means that installing solar panels can not only save you money on energy bills now but can also be a wise investment for the future if you ever intend to sell your home.
Low Maintenance
Solar panels require very little maintenance, making them a hassle-free addition to any property. Once installed, solar panels typically last for 25-30 years, with very few repairs needed during this time. This means that homeowners and businesses can enjoy the benefits of solar energy without having to worry about regular maintenance costs.
Energy Security
By generating their own electricity, households and businesses can also increase their energy security. In the event of a power outage, solar panels can continue to generate electricity, providing a reliable source of power when it is needed most. This is particularly important for businesses that rely on a steady supply of electricity to operate.
In addition, by reducing their reliance on the national grid, households and businesses can also protect themselves from potential energy price increases.
Job Creation
The shift towards renewable energy sources such as solar power has also created new job opportunities in the UK. According to the Solar Trade Association, the UK solar industry employs over 24,000 people, with many of these jobs being in the installation and maintenance of solar panels. As the demand for solar power continues to grow, so too will the number of jobs in the industry.
Conclusion
There are many benefits to using solar panels in the UK. From reducing carbon emissions and cost savings to increased property value and energy security. Solar energy is a sustainable and reliable source of power that can help households and businesses to become more environmentally friendly and self-sufficient.
With the government’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, the installation of solar panels has become more important than ever. It is a wise investment that can help us all to become more environmentally conscious and financially secure.
Article written by GreenMatch.
