With increasing energy costs and the adverse impact that many traditional sources of energy have on the environment, many homeowners around the world have turned to solar power as an alternative.
In the United Kingdom, installing solar panels has become an increasingly popular choice, and for good reason. In this article, we will explore the benefits of installing solar panels, and provide a list of the top ten best locations in the United Kingdom for doing so.
Why install solar panelling?
First and foremost, installing solar panels can be an excellent investment for homeowners. While the initial cost of installation can be significant, solar panels have the potential to significantly reduce energy bills over time. According to the Energy Saving Trust, a typical 4kWp solar panel system could save the average UK homeowner around £400 per year on energy bills.
Over the lifetime of the solar panels, this adds up to thousands of pounds in potential savings. Solar panels also offer a significant return on investment. In addition to the savings on energy bills, homeowners who install solar panels are eligible for government-backed schemes such as the Feed-in Tariff (FIT), which pays homeowners for every unit of electricity their solar panels generate, as well as for any excess electricity that they export back to the grid. The FIT scheme has been shown to provide homeowners with a tax-free income of up to £585 per year.
Great for the environment
Another key benefit of solar panels is their positive impact on the environment. Solar energy is a clean and renewable source of power, meaning that it produces no greenhouse gas emissions or other harmful pollutants. By installing solar panels, homeowners can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Additionally, solar panels require very little maintenance once installed, making them a low-maintenance option compared to other renewable energy sources such as wind turbines.
Best UK locations for solar power
While the United Kingdom is not known for its sunny weather, there are certain areas that receive more sunlight than others. The South of England, for example, is more suitable for solar panel installation, as it receives the most sunlight in the country. Read on for our list of the top ten best UK locations for solar panel installation…
How to get the best out of solar
Another key factor to consider when selecting a location for solar panel installation is the orientation and angle of the roof. Ideally, solar panels should be installed on a south-facing roof with an angle of around 30 degrees, as this is the optimal angle for capturing solar energy.
However, east or west-facing roofs can also be suitable, and solar panels can generally be installed on roofs of any angle, as long as they are not too steep or too flat.
Homeowners should consider the size of their roof when deciding whether to install solar panels. Ideally, the size of the solar panel system should match the energy needs of the home, in order to maximize the energy savings and return on investment. Additionally, homeowners should ensure that their roof is structurally sound and able to support the weight of the solar panels before going ahead.
A sunny future
In conclusion, installing solar panels can be an excellent investment for homeowners in the United Kingdom. With the potential for significant energy savings, a positive impact on the environment, and a strong return on investment, solar panels are a smart choice for those who are looking to reduce their energy bills and contribute to a more sustainable future.
By selecting a location with high levels of sunlight, the optimal orientation and angle of the roof, and the right size of solar panel system, homeowners can ensure that they are maximizing the benefits of their investment in solar energy.
Top ten best locations in the United Kingdom for solar panelling:
- Cornwall – with its sunny climate and abundant coastline, Cornwall is a top location for solar panelling in the UK.
- Kent – also known for its mild weather and plenty of sunshine, Kent is a great location for solar energy.
- Bristol – Bristol is considered a leading city for renewable energy, with many companies and government initiatives promoting solar panelling.
- Oxfordshire – with its rolling hills, Oxfordshire is a perfect location for solar power installations.
- Suffolk – Suffolk’s coastline and flat terrain make it an ideal spot for solar panelling.
- Cambridgeshire – Cambridgeshire’s flatlands provide an excellent opportunity for capturing the sun’s rays.
- Devon – with its South West-facing coastline, Devon enjoys plenty of sun and is a great location for solar power.
- East Sussex – East Sussex has long hours of sunlight throughout the year, making it a suitable location for solar panelling.
- Hampshire – Hampshire has a thriving renewable energy sector, with many businesses investing in solar power infrastructure.
- Shropshire – located in the Midlands, Shropshire’s flat terrain and elevated position make it a prime location for solar panelling.
