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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the feed-in tariff?

The feed-in tariff is a fixed rate per unit of electricity produced by your Solar PV system. The Government backed scheme introduced on the 1st April 2010 will pay you a sum (tax free for domestic installations only) of 21p for each unit (kWh) of electricity generated and is guaranteed for 25 years. It's applicable to all systems under 4kW installed before 31st March 2012. Any surplus energy that is not used is automatically exported to the national grid for a minimum rate of 3p per kWh.

Feed In Tariff payments are linked to inflation and from the 1st April 2011 the payments have increased to 21p and 3.1p respectively.

What is the payback time on the system?

Based on current average electricity costs, and assuming modest inflation of energy prices, the payback period should be between 7 and 10 years. This figure could significantly reduce if electricity prices undoubtedly continue to soar. Another plus is the added value the system brings to the price of your property.

What guarantees do I have?

For complete piece of mind Solarlec PV Solutions Ltd has an insurance backed 5 YEAR Guarantee.

How can I see how much electricity I am producing?

The system incorporates a generation meter that records the amount of electricity that you are generating. Portable display monitors are also available as an optional extra.

Is solar electricity suitable for my home?

To tell if solar electricity is right for you, there are a few key questions to consider:

• Do you have a sunny place to put it? You'll need a roof or wall that faces within 90 degrees of south, and isn't overshadowed by trees or buildings. If the surface is in shadow for parts of the day, your system will generate less energy.

• Is your roof strong enough? It is important that your roof is structurally sound before fitting solar panels. If in doubt, ask a construction expert or an installer. We will always conduct a site survey before every installation and will give you advice accordingly.
  

• Do you need planning permission? In England, Wales Scotland and Northern Ireland, you don't need planning permission for most home solar electricity systems, as long as they're below a certain size - but you should check with your local planning officer, especially if your home is a listed building, or is in a conservation area or World Heritage Site.

Do I need planning permission to install a roof mounted system?

Solar panels are considered a 'permitted development' in England and Wales as long as they are not installed above the ridge line of your home. However, if you live in a listed building or in a conservation area, restrictions may apply. Up-to-date advice is available on the government's planning portal.

Will it work when the Sun isn't shining?

Solar panels can produce electricity whether its is cloudy or sunny just not at night. However, the more sunlight there is, the more electricity a solar panel can produce. The length of day will also affect how much electricity a solar panel can produce, meaning that Summer months with longer days will give you the greatest returns.

How long does a PV system take to install?

Our skilled installers will only take 8 hours to install a typical 2.16 kWp system.

How long is my PV micro generation system guaranteed for?

The power generated by the system is guaranteed for 25 years, although it should have an operating life of up to 40 years.

Who Qualifies for Feed-in Tariffs?

Homeowners in the UK who have a PV Solar Panel System fitted on or after July 2009 will qualify for the feed-in tariff.

Ofgem (electricity regulators) will administer the scheme and electricity suppliers will be responsible for paying the reward to their customers.

How much can I expect to earn?

This of course depends on your installation. However, a 4kWp well sited PV Solar Panel System will generate a predicted feed-in tariff payment of £721.14, an export tariff payment of £53.22 and a saving on electricity of £223.21 - a total benefit of £997.57 tax free per year.

Factoring in conservative estimates for inflation and electricity price rises, this could equate to over £33,170 over the 25 year period (even greater electricity savings can be made by using more of the generated electricity rather than the 50% deemed usage rate.

Why are the Government doing this?

Simply put, the Government have been set targets to meet and have made commitments to reduce carbon emissions and secure future energy supplies. The most efficient way of doing this is to make small scale renewable energy an attractive proposition for home owners. By presenting a generous average annual earning, it is hoped this will initiate wide spread use of solar electricity. The initial 21p feed-in tariff rate will be available for a limited period in order to incentivise home owners to enter the Scheme sooner rather than later.

Can I claim the feed in tariff if a non-certified installer performs the installation?

No, the installation must use MCS approved Solar PV Panels and be carried out by a MCS certified installer in order to be eligible for the feed in tariff.