Frequently Asked Questions.
Q: Do I need planning permission?
A: In England, changes to permitted development rights for domestic microgeneration technologies introduced on 6th April 2008 have lifted the requirements for planning permission for most Solar Thermal and Solar PV installations. Roof mounted and stand-alone systems can now be installed in most dwellings, as long as they respect certain size criteria. Exceptions apply for Listed Buildings, and buildings in Conservation Areas and World Heritage Sites.
Q: What happens to the electricity I generate?
A: If it is not used within your property it will be put into the National Grid (unless stored in batteries). Householders will benefit either way but doubly so if used in their property.
Q: Do I have to have underfloor heating for heat pumps to work?
A: No, underfloor heating is the most energy efficient way of heating buildings and ideally suited to heat pumps. Some heat pumps can 'bolt-on' to existing central heating radiators.
Q: Will solar panels work with a combi boiler?
A: A system that includes a storage cylinder is ideal, there are ways of installing solar thermal with a combi boiler - a survey would be necessary to determine best course of action.
Q: Can I fit them myself?
A: No, solar thermal usually requires an unvented cylinder, it is an offence for anyone other than a qualified person to install one. DIY or unqualified installers of any renewable system also run the risk of invalidating home insurance and the property may also not meet building regulations, this may (in turn) cause future problems when coming to sell the property. Always ask to see installer credentials.
Q: How much will I save?
A: All circumstances are different - potential savings can only really be identified after a survey.
Q: Do I get paid for generating electricity?
A: Yes, if you join a micro-generation scheme with a major supplier you can get paid for the electricity you generate - regardless of whether you have used it or not!
For example (May 2009): For up to a 6 kW System the following suppliers will pay you:-
Good Energy - 15 pence per kW used
Green Energy - 14.5 pence per kW used
EDF - 10 pence per kW used
It is expected that these figures will go up dramatically from April 2010 through government incentives.
Q: It's Britain, will solar work in cloud and rain?
A: A common mis-conception is that solar requires tropical style sunshine. Energy can be harnessed from cloudy, rainy days.
Q: How much disturbance will there be to my house?
A: Although some inconvenience is unavoidable, we will endeavor to keep this to an absolute minimum.
Q: Can I get a grant?
A: Grant funding is available from various bodies, including the Low Carbon Building Programme (LCBP). Although it is expected that grant funding for electricity generation will be phased out this year in favour of increased 'Feed In' tariffs.
Q: Do I need to change my wiring?
A: No, domestic heat pumps require a connection to the fuse box similar to a cooker or shower.
Q: Are heat pumps really that green?
A: In efficiency terms they are 300 - 500% more efficient than a gas or oil boiler, they do use electricity and, if required, this can be offset by installing solar PV or a domestic wind turbine.
Q: Will it increase the value of my property?
A: Research carried out by Energy Saving Trust shows that home improvements incorporating energy saving measures increases the property value by up to £10k.
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