Advantages of solar energy

Reduce your carbon footprint and lower your electricity costs with solar energy.

Solar energy is quickly becoming one of the world's fastest growing energy technologies, and with good reason. With the sunniest April on record and the highest ever production of solar power in the UK, it's clear that solar energy is making a significant impact on our energy landscape.

We'll explore the advantages and disadvantages of solar energy, helping you understand if it's the right choice for your home and lifestyle.

How solar energy works: Tapping into renewable power.

Solar energy is a renewable source of power that can be harnessed to meet our electricity needs. Photovoltaic (PV) panels, installed on rooftops, buildings, and solar farms, capture sunlight and convert it into usable electricity. These panels consist of small solar cells that generate electric current when exposed to daylight. The electricity produced is then fed through an inverter, which converts it into a form suitable for powering your lights and appliances.

Additionally, advancements in storage technology allow excess energy generated during the day to be stored in solar batteries, providing you with power even after sunset.

Contrary to popular belief, solar panels can generate electricity during all daylight hours, regardless of weather conditions. While sunnier days yield higher power output, even cloudy days can produce a significant amount of energy. This consistent generation makes solar energy a reliable and dependable source of electricity.

Harnessing solar power at home: Versatile and sustainable.

Solar power has a wide range of applications in residential settings. Here are some ways you can benefit from solar energy at home:

Providing electricity: Solar panels can generate electricity to power your home's lighting and appliances. By installing an energy-efficient system alongside solar panels, you can significantly reduce your reliance on traditional grid electricity.
Charging electric cars: If you own a hybrid or electric vehicle, you can use the energy generated by your solar panels to charge your car conveniently at home. This helps you reduce your carbon footprint further by powering your transportation with clean energy.

The advantages of solar energy: Saving money and the environment.

There are numerous advantages to embracing solar energy for your home:

Reduced electricity costs: Generating your own power with solar panels can lead to substantial savings on your annual electricity bill. If your solar panels generate surplus energy, you can sell it back to the grid through programs like the Smart Export Guarantee, earning additional income.
Lower carbon footprint: Solar power is a clean, renewable energy source that helps combat climate change. By adopting solar energy, you contribute to the UK's carbon reduction goals, protect wildlife habitats, and support communities and economies threatened by climate change.
Renewable and sustainable: In addition to mitigating climate change, solar energy reduces air pollution, a significant global challenge. Embracing solar power means embracing a sustainable future, where we rely less on finite fossil fuels and more on renewable sources.
Increased home value: Solar panels can impact property value positively and help reduce energy costs. Estate agents have differing opinions, with some claiming they can increase a property's value, while others believe they might discourage buyers. However, the market is increasingly focused on green initiatives, and installing solar panels can enhance a property's environmental credentials, potentially attracting better offers from buyers.
Ease of installation: Installing solar panels on your roof is a straightforward process that typically gets completed within a day. However, it's important to consider factors like the orientation and tilt of your roof, as these can affect the energy output of your panels. Working with experts in the field will ensure your solar system is optimised to meet your specific needs.

Potential disadvantages of solar energy: Factors to consider.

While solar energy offers numerous benefits, it's essential to consider potential disadvantages before making a decision:

Affordability: Although solar energy helps reduce your long-term electricity costs, the initial investment for purchasing and installing solar panels can be a significant expense. However, flexible payment options are available, to make the transition to clean energy more accessible. It's important to note that E.ON acts as a credit broker, not a lender, providing assistance in securing financing options.
Weather dependency: Solar PV systems reach peak efficiency on sunny days. While they still generate electricity during cloudy periods, you'll experience the maximum benefits when sunlight is abundant.
Aesthetics: Concerns about the appearance of solar panels on rooftops are often raised. However, advancements in design, such as integrated panels, have made them more visually appealing. Sleek, black-on-black modern solar panels integrated with your existing roof tiles create a seamless and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Site-specific considerations: Each house is unique, and factors like shading from nearby trees or structures can impact the performance of solar panels. Carrying out detailed surveys in advance will ensure you select the right solar package for your home and optimise your system for maximum self-generation.

Embrace solar energy for a sustainable future.

In conclusion, solar energy offers numerous advantages, making it an attractive option for homeowners seeking sustainable solutions. By reducing your carbon footprint, cutting your electricity bills, and embracing renewable power, you contribute to a greener future.

While initial costs and weather dependency should be considered, advancements in technology and financing options have made solar energy more accessible than ever.

Embrace the power of the sun and take a step towards a brighter, more sustainable future with solar energy.

E.ON Energy Installation Services Limited acts as a credit broker not a lender and work exclusively with Creation Consumer Finance Limited who acts as the lender. Credit subject to status, terms and conditions apply and can be found at eonenergy.com/solar, E.ON reserves the right to amend its finance offering at any time and may withdraw at short notice.

E.ON Next Energy Ltd is an Introducer Appointed Representative of E.ON Energy Installation Services Limited who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in relation to credit broking services under number 750410. Registered in England and Wales under company number 09965944 with its registered office at Westwood Way, Westwood Business Park, Coventry, CV4 8LG.