Solar Panel Installation Alford Lincolnshire (LN13): With fears for the environment and rising energy costs, more and more property owners in Alford are thinking about installing solar panels - but what exactly are the pluses and minuses? The time certainly looks right for making this move, with Government backed deals and grants to greatly reduce the outlay, and opportunities to sell back unused energy via the Smart Export Guarantee scheme.
SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS
The phrase Solar Photovoltaic (solar PV) relates to the production of electricity by capturing energy from the sun. It's possible to obtain good results from an installation on your property, as there's ample sunlight in Alford for solar PV to work efficiently. You'll be able to lower your electricity bills and possibly even bring in a modest income by making use of the Smart Export Guarantee scheme, with an effectively placed solar power installation.
By accessing the government backed Green Homes Grant, you can even get assistance with your outlay on solar energy panels. This was revealed by the Government in July 2020, and offers vouchers of between £5,000 - £10,000 for energy saving renovations on your home. So, when you consider that you can couple the Green Homes Grant with the extra benefits of the SEG, you may think that this is the ideal time to install solar panels onto your house in Alford.
SOLAR THERMAL SYSTEMS
Every household and business needs hot water, so why wouldn't you use the sun to generate it? Surprisingly enough, even the decreased hours of sunlight that are experienced during the winter months is adequate to help reduce the level of electricity or gas necessary to bring your water up the perfect temperature. As the months warms up you'll realise that your energy bills reduce even further, and summer time can see all your hot water requirements being fulfilled by a solar thermal system.
Any homeowner in Alford using a solar powered thermal installation to warm up their water is entitled to join the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme to help alleviate the costs. The RHI was made available for household use on the 9th April 2014, after its preliminary take up by commercial businesses. Lasting for seven years, it is a scheme of support designed to help all those who switch to renewable solutions for their heating. Qualifying members of the RHI get a 3 monthly cash pay out, based on the type and size of equipment installed, which lasts the full 7 years covered by the scheme.
SOLAR CONSIDERATIONS
Prior to beginning any solar installation on your Alford home, there are a handful of matters to take into account:
- Is your home's roof impacted by high buildings or tall trees which throw shade on it? - Any amount of shade on your solar panels will lessen their working capability and might even render them largely ineffective.
- Does your roof face south or south-west? - Solar panels must face this direction in the Northern Hemisphere to capture the maximum possible amount of light from the sun's rays.
- Will you need to get planning permission? - For a lot of properties and homes in Alford, solar panels will be on the list of approved modifications that can be made. Only if your home is listed, in a conservation area or if you've got a flat roof will you have to check the constraints in place with your local planning authority.
- What impact on property values can solar installations have? - Solar panel installations have been found to both negatively and positively impact on house prices. Recent research however shows, that owing to the growing awareness in environmental concerns, solar installations are having more positive effects on property prices than they were previously.
SOLAR - THE BENEFITS
Maintenance - The low maintenance requirements of solar PV systems makes them particularly attractive. The angle at which the solar panels are set in the United Kingdom means that they are essentially self cleaning, and so long as they are kept free of shade, will carry on providing electricity for a minimum of 25 years. If your system has batteries attached for storage, these must be changed every ten years or so, however as technology is continuously developing, battery life and efficiency is progressing year on year.
Reducing Bills - There's no charge for the greatest source of energy we know: namely the sun. So, why not take what you can, when you can? You will discover that your energy bills will be less expensive, as soon as you have invested in the installation of your solar PV panels The amount of those savings could be between £90 and £370 annually on your electricity bill in the Alford area, but that will of course be subject to the number of solar panels you install.
Low Carbon Footprint - To help to lessen your carbon footprint, the installation of either a solar thermal or solar PV system on your dwelling in Alford will allow you to produce renewable, green energy. You will be able to save up to two tonnes of carbon emissions each and every year through the installation of a thermal hot water system and solar PV on your Alford home.
Additional Income - Through the Government supported Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme, you can sell any unused electricity that you've produced back to your service provider. You can get this payment as a three monthly cash transfer, or use it as payment towards your power bill. This is set up as a short contract between your electricity provider and you. These short-term contracts give homeowners the ability to switch electric companies and get the best available tariffs on a regular basis.
No Noise Pollution - You won't experience sound from a solar PV system. Even in small domestic based scenarios, some homeowners are irritated by the noises given off by wind turbine generators. Given that there are no moving parts in solar panels in Alford, they don't make any noise.
FINDING A QUALIFIED INSTALLER
It's good practice to get a minimum of 3 estimates from different solar energy installers in Alford, and don't forget to ask neighbours, family or friends who've had systems installed for their feedback as well. While you're collecting price quotes from solar companies, enquire if they know of any subsidies or grants from local organisations and councils, which can be used to offset your initial outlay.
The surveyor should also be able to provide a means by which to see previous solar panel installations on comparable homes for you to have a look at; either through a brochure or via a website. For you to check out their working standards and industry experience, any trustworthy Alford company will have a portfolio of customers and installations.
Affiliation with, or membership of at least one green energy trade body is something that an established solar panel installer in Alford should have. Providing safety regulations, training and technology advances to their registered members, these professional organisations are important for any individual or company in the alternative energy sector. In relation to hiring a solar panel installer in Alford, it is a good idea to keep an eye out for a company that is a member of a professional association like:
The Renewable Energy Association (REA) - In the British Isles, the Renewable Energy Association (REA) is the primary trade body for technicians working within the alternative energy and clean technology sector. It provides training to more than five hundred companies who are members and applies their influence to commit Great Britain to the possibility of a zero carbon economy in the foreseeable future. The Renewable Energy Association (or REA) is a not-for-profit organisation and its members include: generators, service providers, installers, equipment manufacturers, project developers and fuel distributers. These can be anything from sole traders right up to large multi-nationals.
The Microgeneration Certification Scheme - Only Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) certified contractors should carry out solar energy system installations in Alford. The MCS provides recognition in the solar PV industry, and is an indication of good quality for the installation company, and all its supplied solar electricity generation equipment. The MCS encourages and supports the following low-carbon technologies: biomass heating systems, solar panels, battery storage systems and ASHPs (air source heat pumps).
The Solar Trade Association (STA) - The Solar Trade Association (STA) works alongside local authorities, industry and Government agencies to deliver solar solutions throughout the country, and is always at the spearhead of green technologies. A well-regarded and established leader in the solar generation sector, the STA provides training and support for anything from small-scale generation on residential homes, to huge solar power arrays.
Solar panel services can be found in Alford itself, in these postcodes: LN13 0AJ, LN13 9AT, , LN13 3AR, LN13 9BE, LN13 9EF, LN13 9EG, LN13 9PL, LN13 9AU, and LN13 0AA, and in neighbouring locations like Well, Markby, Ulceby Cross, Ailby, Woodthorpe, Rigsby, Saleby, Thurlby, Greenfield, Beesby, South Thoresby, Bilsby, Bilsby Field, Thoresthorpe, Willoughby. Local solar panel installers should have the phone code 01507 and the postcode LN13. Checking that this is the case should make certain you are looking at a local solar panel installer. Local residents will be able to utilise these and lots of other similar services. Click the "QUOTE" banner to get information on solar panel installation in your location.
Ground Source Heating Systems Alford
Ground source heating systems, also known as geothermal heating systems, use the constant temperature of the earth as a source of heat to warm homes and buildings in Alford. By reducing emissions of carbon and eliminating the need for fossil fuels, this renewable energy source is highly efficient and environmentally friendly.
A geothermal heating system absorbs heat from the earth by circulating a mixture of water and antifreeze through pipes that are buried deep in the ground and conveying it to a heat pump. The heat pump amplifies the heat and circulates it throughout the building.
Despite having a higher initial cost than conventional heating systems, geothermal heating systems can help property owners save money in the long term through reduced energy bills and lower maintenance costs. As a sustainable and long-term heating solution, ground source heating systems are a shrewd investment since they are highly durable and can last for a good few years.
In summation, ground source heating systems offer a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for cooling and heating homes and buildings in Alford, while also providing long-term cost savings and durability.
Solar Panel Cleaning
When you are planning to install solar PV panels in Alford, I'd imagine that the last thing on your mind is how you're going to clean them and keep them in good shape. You will however soon appreciate that keeping them clean is necessary, since having grubby panels can cost you money by impacting on their efficiency. Whilst your panels are being mounted it might be worth adding an automatic cleaning system, which is quite pricey at the start, but should save some money with time.
Whilst solar panels will be kept quite clean by the action of the rain, you shouldn't rely on this exclusively. When they haven't been correctly cleaned, solar panels will typically suffer some build-up of dirt and grease, although this might not be obvious when viewed from a distance. If you didn't go with the automatic cleaning system option, you should make plans for a regular cleaning itinerary to stop any serious accumulation of dirt. Nowadays, some of the better pressure washers (such as Karcher) come with inventive cleaning attachments, so it might be a possibility for you to keep your own solar panels clean. Or you might decide to strike a deal with a local Alford cleaning company, or perhaps even a window cleaner (many offer this service). (Tags: Solar Panel Cleaning Alford)
Solar Panel Inspections Alford
For the longevity and efficiency of solar energy systems in Alford, solar panel inspections are indispensable. Damage, defects, or issues with performance can be identified by conducting a comprehensive examination of photovoltaic modules, wiring, inverters, and support structures during such assessments. Inspectors, in addition to verifying electrical connections and safety measures, scrutinize for debris, dust, and shading that may hinder energy production. The early detection of potential issues, alongside the prevention of costly repairs and the maximiaation of energy output, is facilitated by routine inspections. Moreover, their contribution to the overall sustainability of renewable energy lies in the maintenance of solar installation reliability and the efficient harnessing of solar power.
Is Solar Energy Worth It?
A lot of people have heard about solar energy and know it's a good thing for the environment, but many folks don't know why. Like all other things, there are pluses and there are disadvantages, and you have to know both before spending any cash.
The longer term savings possibilities are likely the strongest attraction for people in Alford getting solar panels. By setting up solar panels, you won't have to pay monthly bills for electrical energy which can save you money. The drawback, however, is that the cost of shifting to solar can be rather expensive. You get to the stage of enjoying no cost power only when you've recouped the huge sum of money you have to spend upfront for the solar panels and installation, and this is achieved from the monthly savings, over a period of time (called payback period). Your monthly savings is obviously critical to how long before you actually enjoy no cost power; hence, if your monthly bill is huge, it is going to take less time than if you have a modest electricity bill. Some governments provide motivators for using solar energy, which could help towards the cost of installing solar panels.
A lot of people today are interested in lowering their carbon footprint, and solar energy scores handsomely in this regard. It's unpolluted because there are no emissions or burning the least bit, unlike conventional fuels that pollute the air with a multitude of gases that are both damaging to the environment and to our health. Basically, solar energy does not contribute to the issue of global warming and it doesn't add towards acid rain either. The sun is the best source of solar energy, and as long as it continues producing energy, solar energy will be freely available to us.
Likewise, solar energy is quite discreet as it can be set up on the top of buildings, meaning it's not an eyesore unlike wind turbines; still, if you have solar panels on the ground, they can affect the landscape just like wind turbines, so it's essential to consider their location and positioning. Of course, to produce energy in an efficient manner, the solar panels have to be installed where there is direct sunlight. They're also discreet in regards to noise and smell, since they create no noise and no terrible scents.
And if you detest doing maintenance around the home, don't worry - solar energy systems can work in the background, without you raising a finger, literally for decades. Naturally, one worry is that nighttime equals "lights out" for solar energy. No sun doesn't mean no energy however, since a back-up system such as a battery can be set up. Installation is going to cost some money, but your solar energy is going to keep them charged free of charge.
If you're looking for a good energy source, solar is a really great pick. It will cost you some money to to have it set up, whereafter it will save you money in the long term, on top of which there is no detrimental effect on the environment. Solar energy definitely seems a great way to go if you want to look after the environment and likewise save money on energy.
Alford Solar Panel Tasks
Your local Alford solar panel installer can deliver a wide selection of services and tasks, and as well as what has previously been covered they will be able to do solar panel fitting, industrial solar panel installations, solar panels for greenhouses in Alford, solar panel mounting, residential solar panel installation in Alford, solar panel maintenance, photovoltaic solar panels, thermal solar panels, shower heat recovery systems in Alford, solar energy installations, solar panels for garages, solar PV inverters in Alford, solar energy grants, solar panels for shed Alford, 100 watt solar panels Alford, renewable heating, 300 watt solar panels Alford, the installation of solar panels Alford, solar hot water system installation in Alford, solar panel installations, solar panel relocation, home solar panels, ground source heating systems in Alford, energy assessments, ground mounted solar PV, solar battery storage solutions in Alford, solar PV upgrades, solar panel accessories, solar PV panel installations, electric heating, Tesla Powerwall installation, solar photovoltaic energy systems, new build solar panels, solar installation advice, solar water heating systems, to mention a few. Alford specialists, when contacted, will inform you about the whole range of green energy services which are available.
More Alford Services
Even though you might be on the lookout for a professional who can perform solar panel installation in Alford, Lincolnshire, you could likewise find solar hot water in Alford, heat pumps in Alford, underfloor heating in Alford, SKIP HIRE in Alford, scaffolding in Alford, renewable energy in Alford, solar panel repairs in Alford, green energy in Alford, solar panel replacement in Alford, gutter cleaning in Alford, hot water tank installation in Alford, gas boiler installation in Alford, electricians in Alford, solar thermal heating in Alford, solar panel cleaning in Alford, solar panel maintenance in Alford, repointing in Alford.
Solar Panels Near Alford
Also find: South Thoresby solar panel installers, Thoresthorpe solar panel installers, Willoughby solar panel installers, Bilsby solar panel installers, Ulceby Cross solar panel installers, Bilsby Field solar panel installers, Beesby solar panel installers, Ailby solar panel installers, Markby solar panel installers, Greenfield solar panel installers, Well solar panel installers, Thurlby solar panel installers, Saleby solar panel installers, Rigsby solar panel installers, Woodthorpe solar panel installers and more. The majority of these areas are served by companies who fit solar panels. Local residents can get quotes by going here.
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