Getting Started With Solar - Homeowners
Jan 27, 2025
7 mins
Getting Started with Solarised: A Complete Guide for UK Homeowners
As energy bills continue to rise and concerns about the environment grow, many homeowners in the UK are turning to renewable energy sources for a solution. Solar panels, coupled with battery storage, offer an innovative, eco-friendly way to power your home while reducing your carbon footprint. At Solarised, we’re passionate about making clean, renewable energy accessible to everyone. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about solar panels, battery storage, and how they can benefit you as a homeowner.
Why Choose Solar Panels and Battery Storage?
The UK may not be known for its sunny weather, but that doesn’t mean solar power isn’t a viable option. Solar panels have become increasingly popular due to their long-term savings, environmental benefits, and advancements in technology. When paired with battery storage, homeowners can harness solar power more efficiently, even when the sun isn’t shining.
Here’s why you should consider solar panels for your home:
1. Save Money on Your Energy Bills
One of the most compelling reasons to switch to solar energy is the potential for long-term savings. Solar panels allow you to generate your own electricity, which means you can reduce or even eliminate your reliance on the national grid. This is particularly important in the UK, where energy prices have been steadily rising. With solar panels, you can save a significant amount on your electricity bills, as the electricity you generate is free after installation.
Additionally, battery storage systems allow you to store excess energy generated during the day for use at night or on cloudy days. This means you won’t have to draw from the grid as much, further lowering your energy costs.
2. Increase the Value of Your Property
Installing solar panels can increase the market value of your home. Homebuyers are increasingly looking for energy-efficient properties that offer long-term savings. A home with solar panels is an attractive prospect as it can significantly reduce ongoing energy expenses. Studies have shown that homes with solar systems often sell faster and at higher prices than those without.
3. Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
Solar power is a clean, renewable energy source that doesn’t contribute to air pollution or greenhouse gas emissions. By installing solar panels, you’re playing a crucial role in reducing your household’s carbon footprint and contributing to the fight against climate change. In the UK, where the government has set ambitious targets for reducing carbon emissions, adopting solar energy is a key way for homeowners to make a positive impact.
4. Energy Independence and Security
Solar panels give you greater control over your energy supply. With battery storage, you can store excess power generated during the day and use it when you need it most, which reduces your reliance on the grid. This can be particularly valuable during times of high demand or power outages. By generating your own electricity, you’re not only saving money but also making your home more energy resilient.
5. Government Incentives and Grants
The UK government has various incentives in place to encourage homeowners to adopt renewable energy sources like solar panels. These incentives, such as the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), allow homeowners to sell any excess energy they generate back to the grid, earning extra income. Additionally, some regions may offer grants or subsidies to help with installation costs, making solar panels even more affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
As you explore the possibility of installing solar panels and battery storage, you may have some common questions. Here, we’ve answered a few frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision.
1. Can Any House in the UK Have Solar Panels?
In most cases, yes! Solar panels can be installed on the vast majority of homes in the UK, regardless of location. However, there are a few factors that can affect whether solar panels are suitable for your property:
Roof Space and Orientation: Solar panels need ample roof space to generate enough power. Ideally, your roof should face south to maximise sunlight exposure. However, east or west-facing roofs can also work, although they may not be as efficient.
Roof Condition: If your roof is old or in poor condition, it may need to be repaired or replaced before solar panels can be installed.
Shading: Trees, chimneys, or other structures that cast shadows on your roof can reduce the effectiveness of solar panels. It's important to have your roof assessed to ensure it gets adequate sunlight throughout the day.
Our team at Solarised offers free consultations and assessments to determine whether your home is suitable for solar installation.
2. How Much Money Can Solar Panels Save Me?
The amount of money you can save with solar panels depends on several factors, including your energy consumption, the size of your solar system, and your location. On average, UK homeowners can save between £150 and £400 per year on electricity bills. In some cases, with larger systems or high energy usage, savings can exceed £1,000 per year.
With battery storage, you can save even more by storing excess solar energy to use during the evening or cloudy days, when electricity prices are typically higher.
While the upfront cost of installing solar panels can vary, they typically pay for themselves in savings within 8-12 years, with many systems continuing to generate free electricity for 25 years or more.
3. Do Solar Panels Work in the UK?
Absolutely! While the UK doesn’t have the same amount of sunshine as other countries, solar panels still work effectively here. Solar panels rely on daylight, not just direct sunlight, meaning they can generate power even on cloudy days. The technology has advanced significantly, and modern solar panels are designed to perform efficiently even in lower light conditions.
Furthermore, the UK has a relatively high solar power output during the spring and summer months, which means you can generate and store enough energy to cover your needs for the rest of the year.
4. How Do I Get Solar Panels Installed on My House?
Getting solar panels installed is a straightforward process. Here’s how it works:
Consultation and Assessment: Contact Solarised for a free consultation. Our experts will assess your home, review your energy usage, and discuss the best solar panel and battery storage solutions for your needs.
Design and Quote: We’ll design a custom solar system for your home and provide a transparent, detailed quote that includes all costs, including installation and any potential incentives or grants available.
Installation: Once you approve the quote, our team will schedule the installation. We aim to complete the installation quickly and efficiently, ensuring minimal disruption to your home.
Connection and Testing: After installation, we’ll connect your system to the grid (if applicable) and test it to ensure everything is working perfectly.
Enjoy the Benefits: Once your solar system is up and running, you can start saving on your energy bills and enjoy the benefits of clean, renewable energy.
Conclusion
Investing in solar panels and battery storage is one of the smartest decisions you can make as a homeowner. Not only will you save money on your energy bills, but you’ll also contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future for the UK. At Solarised, we’re committed to providing expert advice, high-quality products, and seamless installations that make switching to solar easy and affordable.
If you're ready to get started, contact Solarised today for a free consultation, and let's work together to bring solar power to your home!