The Recent Energy Price Crisis and the Move to Electric Heating and Vehicles: How Solar Energy Can Help
Recently, energy prices in the UK have been soaring, with many households struggling to keep up with the increased costs. Unfortunately, it seems that this trend is set to continue, with experts predicting further price rises in the coming years. With the UK government committing to a target of net-zero emissions by 2050, it is clear that a shift towards renewable energy sources is essential.
One of the biggest changes that will need to be made is the move to electric heating and vehicles. The government has set ambitious targets for this, with a ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2030, and a push towards electric heating systems. However, this transition will require significant changes to our energy infrastructure and supply. The transition from gas heating to electric heating and the shift towards electric cars is likely to put upward pressure on electricity prices. This is because more electricity will be required to power homes and vehicles, and the increased demand may strain the existing energy infrastructure.
This is where solar energy can play a vital role. Solar power is a clean and renewable energy source that has the potential to provide a significant portion of our energy needs. In the UK, solar energy has been growing rapidly in recent years, with over one million homes now powered by solar panels. The increase in solar uptake is also expected to create jobs and boost the economy, as well as reduce carbon emissions and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Solar panels work by converting sunlight into electricity, which can then be used to power homes and businesses. They are becoming increasingly affordable in recent years. In fact, the cost of solar power is now lower than the cost of fossil fuels in many parts of the world. Of course, the cost of solar panels will depend on various factors, such as the type of panels you install, how many panels you need, the size of your household and roof, and the amount of power you opt for. However, in Scotland, you can generally expect a solar power system to cost between £5000-£7000 in 2023. With VAT exemptions, you can also save 5% on installation costs.
One of the major benefits of solar power is that it can be combined with battery storage. Batteries allow excess energy to be stored for use at a later time, such as during peak demand periods or when the sun isn't shining. This can help to reduce strain on the grid and make solar power even more efficient.
Another important factor to consider is time of use tariffs, which incentivize households to use energy during off-peak periods when demand is lower. By shifting energy usage to these times, households can save money and reduce strain on the grid.
But are solar panels worth the investment in Scotland? Absolutely! It's a common misconception that solar panels are only effective in sunnier climates. In reality, solar panels absorb photons from daylight, regardless of the weather. While less power may be generated during months with fewer daylight hours, panels will continue generating a significant amount of energy even on cloudy days. Even during the reduced solar generation period of winter, solar battery owners can take advantage of off-peak charging rates as low for as 12p per kW. By charging your battery during these times, you can enjoy up to 2/3 cheaper electricity during the day. Time of use battery charging is also beneficial for the grid, as it reduces the demand for energy during peak hours, leading to a more stable energy supply.
So, what does this mean for the average household? Well, installing solar panels with battery storage can result in significant savings on energy bills. In fact, it is estimated that the average domestic solar with battery installation in the UK can save households around 70% on their electricity bills.
It's clear that everyone should make the conscious decision to move towards green energy. Not only will this help to reduce our carbon footprint, but it will also save money in the long run. At AJ Renewables, we offer a free remote design service and solar savings calculation to help households understand the benefits of solar power. Whether you are interested in solar panels, battery storage, or both, we can help you make the switch to clean, renewable energy.
So, what are you waiting for? Book an appointment with us today through our website contact form and one of our team will be in touch within 24 hours.
Best of all, our process is completely contactless, so you can get all the information you need without anyone needing to visit your home. Contact us now to learn more!
