Solar Photovoltaics

A Solar Photovoltaic (PV) generator system converts the energy from the sun into electricity that you can use in your home. If your system generates more than you are using at any time, the excess is automatically exported (sold) back to the grid. If you are using more than you are generating (for instance, at night), you import your energy from the grid as normal. Although solar PV systems are more costly than solar thermal systems, there are grants available to help you. The pay-back periods can be around 15 years. This may seem a long time but consider that once the system has paid for itself, you will be able to enjoy very low electricity bills and even profit from the system. In Germany, it is now common place for homeowners to install solar PV systems as it will create an income for the household that will be particularly useful in retirement. How 'Eco-Preneurial'!

Electricity suppliers offer a range of tariffs that are suitable for your particular needs. There are two types of tarrif:

Export Tarrifs – You will be paid for each unit you generate that you do not use and sell back to the grid. Currently prices are up to 28p per kWh.

Generation Tarrifs – These pay you for each unit you generate whether you use it or not. If you use the unit you generate, you are also not buying from the grid so are in effect saving and making money. However, you get paid less per unit than export tarrifs. A typical rate is 14p per kWh.

With solar PV you will also receive a double ROC certificate for each 1000 kWh you generate. These can be sold and the current market value for each ROC is roughly £45. So for each 1000 kWh you will earn around £90. In the South West, it is possible a solar PV system will generate 1000 kWh a year for every 1 kW installed, however this will depend largely on the weather! The nearer to due south the panels are facing the better their energy generation potential will be.

Solar PV can be built into the roof, of your house. This is called roof integration. We recommend doing this if it is a new build or you live in a conservation area. Solar PV can also be roof mounted, mounted onto a wall or even mounted on the ground.  1kW of solar PV requires around 8m² of roof space.

Call R-ECO now and discuss how a solar PV system could benefit your household and for advice on what kind of system and energy tariff would suit you. You will be surprised at how low our prices are and this does not mean we compromise on quality, in fact quite the opposite. Remember, R-ECO is a Social Enterprise and a Not-For-Profit company. We offer market leading products and provide them at the best price we possibly can.