Introduction to Solar PV
Solar PV (photovoltaic) systems are becoming increasingly popular in the UK. This is due to a number of reasons: the introduction of the Feed-in tariff (FIT), the rising cost of electricity, the maintenance-free operation and the ease of integrating into the existing structure of the house. There are a number of ways of integrating PV into homes: above or on-roof systems; in-roof/integrated systems; tile imitation systems; flat roof and ground mounted systems.
Benefits of Solar PV
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High reliability - No moving parts that can fail.
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Generally maintenance-free operation.
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Can reduce electricity bills as well as providing an additional, tax free, income stream.
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Solar energy is free and reasonably predictable
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Grid-connected systems can be as small or as large as is suitable or wanted as there will still be a grid connection feeding the property.
Example Solar PV System
The below details are for a sample solar PV system. It assumes a house with a suitable sized, unshaded and south facing roof.
| System rating | 2.82 kWp |
| Total array area | 20 m2 |
| Typical system cost | £ 13,000 |
| Estimate of annual energy produced | 2,400 kWh |
| Equivalent energy to running a 60W laptop for | 4.6 years |
| Annual CO2 saved | 1,013 kg |
| Proportion of average households electricity produced | 33% |
| Likely return on investment | 7-8% |
| Likely total annual financial benefit (FITs and energy savings) | £ 1,040 |
What next?
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Start a Solar PV enquiry with Cambridge Solar by visiting our Solar PV Enquiry Page.
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Contact Cambridge Solar on 01223 361 112 or using our Enquiry Form.
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Have a look at our Solar PV Frequently Asked Questions page
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Browse our Solar PV section in our Microgeneration Information Centre
