Solar Power (PV)

You can convert the sun's energy to create electricity for your home using solar photovoltaic (PV) panels. PV panels can be bolted on to your roof, or PV roof tiles can be seamlessly incorporated with your regular tiles. PV qualifies for the national Clean Energy Cashback Scheme.

All the electricity that you produce can earn you money through the clean energy cashback scheme.
All six of the PV bands have been awarded strengthened tariffs, peaking at 41.3p/kWh for sub 4kW retrofit installations.
Tariffs are index linked - linking payments to the retail price index in order to ensure the income from them is in line with inflation.
The rate of return will be between 5-8%.
Annual emissions of CO₂ fall by 325kg per solar kWp produced.
In many areas, PV panels are classed as permitted development, which means you don't need planning permission. Contact Planning Enquiries to see if this applies to you.
Life expectancy of PV is 25 years.
PV systems operate silently.

Page updated: 05 May 2010