CASESTUDYCONSUMER
useful tip and we’re now making money back from the government as well as covering all of our energy costs.”
With a variety of solar products on the market and variable information on the effectiveness, output and opportunity available, it is vital that distributers and installers are providing information to suit the customer needs. This may seem obvious but increasing uptake of PV in the UK will depend heavily on the awareness and trust of the public. Any disreputable sales affects the entire industry.
Habit changing “We’ve always been careful about our energy consumption and still are,” Sue continued. “ Now, we tend to used electrical equipment during the day when we’re generating more power. As an example, by 8.30am I’m able to use the toaster, kettle and put on the dishwasher and still have electricity over to sell back. I did a lot of research around renewable energy before we finally took the plunge. At the time neighbours thought we were crazy. However, nine months in and they’re catching on to the fact we save money on our bills as well as generate a healthy income.” The impact of the Anson’s solar choice has already had a broader impact with the neighbours been so impressed by the couple’s experience that they too have had panels fitted, as has their son.
Michael explains: “Our son is in the RAF and spends long periods of the year away from home. He installed the panels and now when he comes home from the Falklands, he has cheques waiting for him for the energy he’s produced.”
“The decision to install solar PV panels makes sense from both a green and commercial point of view,” commented Martin Dowd from MG Renewables. “The incentives announced last year
make renewable energy a lot more accessible. The fact a guaranteed income for a 25 year period can be generated means the system pays for itself very quickly. After that, the money made is yours. Long term, it will reduce electricity bills indefinitely, with panels expected to last well beyond 30 years.
“The initial outlay for a 4 kWp – 30 sqm system such as that used by the Ansons is approximately £15,000,” continued Dowd. “ But when you bring in the money you can make from power suppliers and the fact you will be producing your own electricity, reducing the amount you need to buy in , it seems an obvious thing to do both financially and environmentally.”
FiT to continue From there own experience of wanting renewable affordable energy, Michael and Sue believe there’s never been a better time to invest in solar energy.
“The government is really incentivising green energy,” said Sue. “While it may seem a big initial outlay, the panels pay themselves off much quicker than many people expect.
“Before we had the panels installed we discussed the government estimates with MG Renewables,” continued Sue. “I’m pleased to say our panels have been performing better than predicted. There’s nothing better than living off natural energy. Even on a bleak January day we’re able to power the house and it’s great to know we can provide for ourselves whilst saving money.”
© 2011 Angel Business Communications. Permission required.
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www.solar-pv-uk.com Issue III 2011
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