Solar PV is a technology that uses photovoltaic cells to convert sunlight into electrical energy. Solar PV systems can be used for a variety of purposes, including generating electricity, heating water, and cooling buildings.
The use of solar PV has been growing rapidly in the United Kingdom in recent years. According to the Department of Energy and Climate Change, the amount of installed solar PV capacity in the United Kingdom increased from 1.5 gigawatts (GW) at the end of 2013 to 6.9 GW by the end of 2017. This growth is expected to continue, with solar PV capacity expected to reach 11 GW by 2021.
When homeowners purchase solar panels for their energy needs, they save money on electricity bills in the long run. In fact, many solar panel systems will generate more electricity than is needed to power the home, which can be sold back to the grid for a profit.
There have been a number of schemes produced by the Government to help reimburse homeowners who over produce electricity and these are due to change in 2022.
The current Export Tariff will allow you to sell any extra units you do not use back to your electricity supplier. This is called an ‘export tariff’.
You’ll get 5.24p per unit of electricity.
You can sell back half of the units of electricity you generate. You’ll need an export meter if your installation is above 30kW.
You’ll also save money on your electricity bills for the energy you do use. To claim on this tariff, you must have a valid MCS Certificate.