Top Ten FAQ’s
• Is the amount of sun in the UK sufficient to support PV?
• How much electricity could I save?
• Will a PV installation mean I cannot switch electricity supplier in the future?
• Would I need planning permission for solar panels?
• Does cleanearth offer free solar as advertised by others?
• Will my roof bear the weight of a PV installation?
• How long does it take to fit the solar system?
• Are you registered to do this?
• Is the amount of sun in the UK sufficient to support PV?
Solar panels work on daylight rather than direct sunshine, so the often-cloudy UK weather is sufficient to generate a significant amount of electricity. In terms of financial return the FIT rates have been designed to ensure that PV is attractive within the UK.
• How much electricity could I save?
Up to 30% (assuming medium energy use and – per the Energy Saving Trust assumptions – assuming that you use 50% of the electricity you produce). The actual amount will always depend on how and when you use electricity. cleanearth provides an electricity monitor that will help guide you towards obtaining full benefits – which may involve switching appliance use to daytime as distinct to evening operation. Financial savings are likely to increase, however, because your electricity generation is inflation proof (and energy prices have doubled over the last 5 years, according to research by uSwitch).
• Will a PV installation mean I cannot switch electricity supplier in the future?
No. You stay with whatever energy provider you like, or switch if and when you like. Your FIT benefits are separate to your utility bill and would not be impacted by any change. Your flexibility is not impacted at all.
• Would I need planning permission for solar panels?
You generally don’t need planning consent – but if you do cleanearth will help.
The feed-in-tariff is legislation designed to support the introduction of microgenerated electricity. See the attached link.
• Does cleanearth offer free solar as advertised by others?
Yes. If your home or commercial installation is well situated we will consider a “free” solar electricity arrangement. Contact us to discuss.
• Will my roof bear the weight of a PV installation?
Solar PV panels are not particularly heavy – a typical single panel weighs around 15-20kg. If there’s any doubt whatsoever cleanearth will engage an independent structural engineer to validate. Sometimes very moderate strengthening may be required, which we’ll take care of.
• How long does it take to fit the solar system?
It should only take a couple of days maximum to fit the panels, weather permitting.
• Are you registered to do this?
Yes. cleanearth is Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) certified. We are extremely confident that you’ll agree our work is of the highest quality. You should only use an MCS certified company, to assure receipt of subsequent benefits.
Assume around 7 square metres per 1kWp.
