Wednesday, 20 April 2011

The Renewable Heat Incentive and Solar Panels

Without going into too much detail, the government has launched the Renewable Heat Incentive, which is a scheme designed to support businesses and homeowners by rewarding those who reduce their dependence on fossil fuel heating systems. Quite a mouthful isn’t it?

So in short, by switching over to renewable energy systems such as solar heating, you could be rewarded by the government. From October 2012 onwards homes may qualify for tariffs for each kWh (Kilowatt hour) of renewable heat they produce themselves. This is quite an incentive in my eyes, and a further indication that solar heating is the way forward for homes throughout the capital.

These tariff payments would be made quarterly over a 20 year period, so consider that if you’re still wondering whether solar panels would be worth the investment.

If you’re interested in finding out more about solar heating or the Renewable Heat Incentive give me a call. I’ll talk you through it all and give you specific examples of how much you could save on your energy bills or receive in tariffs if you qualify.

Do I Qualify for Solar Heating?

Do I qualify? This is one of the most common questions people ask me when it comes to solar heating and solar panels. And with good reason, as not all homes do qualify unfortunately. But if you’re unsure, leave it to me. After arranging a free no obligation survey with Bates, my team will inspect your property and see if your home is suitable for solar panels.

The first job is deciding whether your roof is suitable or not. A sloping roof will have to be free from shading and cover and face south, south east, south west, east or west. Ideally, a south facing roof is best. If your roof is north east, north west or north facing you will still get some power from the solar panels, but in all honesty you may not generate enough to support the financial outlay you’ll need to install it in the first place.

Don’t worry; we know everything there is to know about positioning and installing solar panels on sloping roofs and I’ll tell you straight whether it is worth you having them or not.

If you’re lucky enough to have a flat roof, solar panels would be a perfect addition, although I may need to gain planning permission on your behalf before I can start work. Just leave it to me – I know these regulations and red tape can get people confused but I’ll do all I can to make it as painless and trouble free as I possibly can.

To find out for sure if you qualify, book a free no obligation survey. With summer just around the corner you could soon be making significant savings on your energy bills – savings that will carry on all year round. Give me a call today and I’ll set up a meeting.