Choosing solar can be confusing

A. An average turnkey 3.6kWh domestic installation will cost around £10k. This included solar panels, inverter and battery storage.

A. The savings you can achieve by installing solar panels depend on several factors, including your location, the size of your solar system, local energy costs, and available incentives. Generally, solar panel owners can save anywhere from 10% to 70% on their annual electricity bills in a year. In the summer months, many of our customers completely eradicate their electricity bills. In some cases, you might even generate excess energy, allowing you to earn credits or sell it back to the grid. The long-term benefits of reduced electricity bills and potential income from excess energy generation make solar panels a smart financial choice while contributing to a sustainable future.

A. Yes, various financing options are available, including loans, leases, and power purchase agreements (PPAs), making solar more accessible to a wider range of homeowners. You should always consider the cost of any financing in your overall payback calculations. Avon Renewables does not offer any financing options.

A. The size and type of solar panel system, your location, roof condition, and any additional components like battery storage can influence the cost. Government incentives and rebates also play a role.

A. Absolutely! If you are on a budget and you want to see how much you actually produce, our battery solution allows you to add more storage capacity at a later stage.

A. A solar inverter is a critical component of a solar power system. Its primary function is to convert the direct current (DC) electricity generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is the type of electricity used in homes and the electricity grid. AC electricity is what powers your household appliances, lights, and other electrical devices. In addition, the inverter will facilitate data collection and includes important safety features.

A. The panels supplied by Avon Renewables are documented to be 85% efficient.....

A. Standard grid-tied systems without battery storage shut down during a power outage for safety reasons. However, with a battery storage solution, you can continue to power essential appliances during outages.

A. Solar panels typically have a lifespan of 25-30 years or more. They may continue to produce energy beyond this period but at a reduced efficiency.

A. The lifespan of a solar lithium-ion battery can vary depending on several factors, including the type of lithium-ion chemistry used, the depth of discharge (DoD), temperature conditions, and the quality of the battery. Generally, solar lithium-ion batteries are designed to last for a certain number of cycles or years. Here are some common guidelines: Cycle Life: Most solar lithium-ion batteries are rated for a certain number of charge-discharge cycles, typically ranging from 2,000 to 6,000 cycles or more. The cycle life is influenced by how deeply the battery is discharged during each cycle. Shallower discharges can prolong the battery's lifespan. Depth of Discharge (DoD) : The depth to which a lithium-ion battery is regularly discharged can significantly impact its lifespan. Keeping the DoD lower, ideally below 80%, can help extend the battery's life. Deeper discharges will result in a shorter lifespan. DOD is also referred to SOC (State of Charge). Temperature: High temperatures can accelerate the degradation of lithium-ion batteries. It's essential to maintain a suitable operating temperature range for the battery to maximize its lifespan. Quality: The quality of the battery and its components, including the cells and management system, plays a crucial role in determining its lifespan. High-quality batteries from reputable manufacturers are more likely to meet their specified cycle life and last longer. Battery Chemistry: There are various lithium-ion battery chemistries, such as lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4), lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC), and lithium manganese oxide (LMO). Different chemistries have different characteristics and lifespans, with LiFePO4 often known for its durability and longer lifespan. Maintenance: Regular maintenance and proper care, such as avoiding overcharging or over-discharging, can help extend the life of a lithium-ion battery. Typically, a well-maintained solar lithium-ion battery can last 15 years or more, depending on the factors mentioned above. Manufacturers often provide warranties for a specified number of years or cycles, offering some assurance of the expected lifespan. When considering a solar battery system, it's important to choose a high-quality battery and work with a reputable installer who can guide you on battery maintenance and help you select the best battery technology for your specific needs and budget.

A. Calculating an estimated Return on Investment (ROI) for a solar installation largely involves projecting savings from reduced electricity bills. To do this, you will need to make some assumptions which include: Estimating the amount of electricity your system will generate (efficiency of the system, lifetime of the system, hours of sun, etc.) Predicting future energy prices. Savings on your gas bill from using excess solar electricity to heat water (can account for 11% of a house holds bill). In addition, and often overlooked, you should factor in the potential tax implications of interest earned on savings. If you are using savings that earn interest, you may need to pay taxes on the interest income. Consider the annual tax impact of this interest income when determining your overall financial situation. If you keep your savings in low-yield accounts, you might miss out on potential returns that a solar investment can provide. By considering both your potential electricity bill savings and the tax implications of interest income, you can make a more informed decision about whether investing in solar is a financially sound choice for you. It's advisable to consult with a financial advisor or tax professional to ensure that your calculations are accurate and that you're making the best financial decision for your unique circumstances. All of that said, you can't put a price on the environmental benefit of becoming a green energy producer!

A. Most of the solar panels on the market today for residential solar energy systems can fit into three categories: monocrystalline solar panels, polycrystalline solar panels, and thin film solar panels. Monocrystalline solar panels are highly efficient and have a sleek design, but come at a higher price point than other solar panels. Polycrystalline solar panels are cheaper than monocrystalline panels, however, they are less efficient and aren’t as aesthetically pleasing. Thin film solar panels are the cheapest, but have the lowest efficiency rating and require a lot of space to meet your energy needs. At Avon Renewables we recommend the latest monocrystalline PV panels (download datasheet below). They have an all-black cell and frame design so look incredibly sleek. They come with a 15 year guarantee and a power output guarantee of 90% for 15 years and 80% for 30 years.

A. The inverter should be sized to match the capacity of your solar panels. Ensure that the inverter's maximum DC input capacity is slightly higher than the maximum DC output of your solar array. This ensures that your inverter can handle the power generated by your panels efficiently. If you plan to expand your solar system in the future, consider if the inverter can handle the additional capacity. Also ensure that your inverter selection complies with local electrical codes, regulations, and utility interconnection requirements. Always consult your local solar specialist.

A. To determine the size of your solar system and how much energy you need or want to produce, you should consider your electricity consumption, location, and goals. Start by reviewing your past electricity bills to gauge your average daily usage. Other factors will effect how much you should or could generate such as available roof space and orientation of your roof.

A. Absolutely. Battery storage is a game changer for solar, allowing you to store and use excess energy when you need it. We no longer rely on sunny hours to benefit from solar energy.

A. You don't need solar panels to benefit from cheaper green energy. Energy suppliers like https://octopus.energy offer special tariffs that allow you to download cheaper green energy during off-peak periods that can be stored in batteries and used when you need it. Get in touch to discover more about battery storage options.

A. The installation timeline varies based on the size and complexity of the project but typically takes a few days to a few weeks.

A. Solar panels generate electricity when exposed to sunlight. During cloudy days, production may be reduced, but you'll still have electricity due to net metering or battery storage options.

A. Solar panels are generally low-maintenance. Periodic cleaning and inspections are advisable to ensure optimal performance. Most systems come with warranties that cover maintenance and repairs.

A. To determine the size of your solar system and how much energy you need or want to produce, you should consider your electricity consumption, location, and goals. Start by reviewing your past electricity bills to gauge your average usage. Other factors will effect how much you should or could generate such as available roof space and orientation of your roof.

A. In most cases, solar panels on residential properties were considered "permitted development," meaning you could install them without the need for planning permission. There were several conditions to meet for this, including that the solar panels didn't project more than 200mm from the plane of the wall or roof. Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings: If your property was in a conservation area or a listed building, you might need planning permission even for solar panels. Size and Position: The size and position of the solar panels on your property could also affect whether you needed planning permission. Panels should not be higher than the highest part of the roof, and they should not project more than 200mm. Exemption for Domestic Microgeneration: As of 2021, some types of solar installations, such as small-scale domestic installations (up to 4 kW capacity), were exempt from the requirement for an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) as well. This is relevant because an EPC was sometimes required for planning permission. However, planning rules and regulations can change. It's essential to check with your local planning authority or consult a professional to get the most up-to-date information and guidance regarding solar panel installation in the UK. Local regulations can also vary, so what is permissible can differ from one area to another.

A. Yes, absolutely you can put self generated green energy in to your EV. The my energy range of products helps with this. But recognise that, depending on what type of EV you have, its battery will probably be larger than your excess or even total solar energy generation capacity in a given 24 hour period. A typical hybrid car will have a 10 to 15kWh battery, where as full EV will have anywhere between 40 and even 100kWh capacity. In addition, your invert will have limited output capacity resulting in energy import during peak rate energy prices. As such, many choose to change their energy supplier/tariff to accommodate overnight charging at more favourable electricity rates from green thinking suppliers like Octopus.

A. Solar panels can significantly reduce your electricity bills, often resulting in long-term savings. They contribute to a reduction in your carbon footprint and support a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. Solar panels can increase the value of your property.

A. Solar panels harness sunlight through photovoltaic cells, which convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. A solar inverter then converts the DC electricity into alternating current (AC), which is used to power your home and appliances or sent to the grid.