Solar Myths and FAQs
On this page we look at myths about solar PV systems and answer some frequently asked questions.
Feed–in tariffs (also known as the
Clean Energy Cash Back)
Why is the Government introducing
the feed-in tariffs?
- Government wants to encourage individuals, householders, organizations, businesses and local authorities to start generating their own energy from renewable sources. The feed-in tariff allows them to receive a guaranteed payment for the electricity they produce, protect themselves against future energy prices and cut carbon emissions.
The highest tariffs are for "retrofit systems".
How is retrofit different from new build?
-
The Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC) define a retrofit a system as one that is installed on a building that is already occupied. New build systems are those installed on a new building and before it is first occupied.
Why should I invest now?
Will the costs
come down?
- It's unlikely that the technology costs will become cheaper quickly; the feed-in tariff is structured so that you're likely to get the highest benefits now. The rate you come in at is the rate you pay for the lifetime of your system. After 1 April 2012, the feed-in tariffs will decrease 8.5% every year for new installations. So now is the best time to invest.
Are the FIT rates really guaranteed for the full 25 years? Can future governments back track on them?
- Feed in tariffs share unprecedented support amongst all the main political parties. All the main political parties have commitments to move towards renewable energy, reduce the UK’s carbon emissions, be less reliant on foreign energy imports, and move from a centralised electricity generation to a more local generation.
Who pays me for the feed-in tariff?
- The energy suppliers pay the feed-in tariffs to those who generate the clean electricity. When you apply for the feed-in tariff, you should ask your energy supplier how and when payments will be made. Energy companies are obliged to pay you at least quarterly.
How do I apply for the feed-in tariff?
- Once your installation is complete, you can apply for the feed-in tariff. You need to inform your chosen energy supplier that you are now eligible to receive the feed-in tariff and send your MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) paperwork to the energy company. We will provide you with this paperwork. We will also be here to offer help and advice on this process.
What happens if I move home?
- Ownership of the technology is linked to the house and, therefore, in the case where a building or homeownership changes, the ownership of the technology would also transfer to the new owner. When you sell your home you will be able to show prospective buyers the guaranteed income you are receiving from your energy supplier.
Maintenance
Do I need to clean the panels?
- Solar PV systems that are connected to the national grid require no maintenance. If the panels are installed on a roof of at least 15 degrees, usually any dust or dirt washes off the panels when it rains.
Does the system need batteries?
- The Sun Switch PV system is connected to the national grid and does not need batteries. At night time, when the cells are not generating energy, electricity is bought from the utility company in the normal way. Any excess electricity generated during the day, for example when you are at work or on your holiday, is sold back to the energy company.
What if the system breaks?
- There are no moving parts in a solar PV system and all the components we install are of the highest standard. Please check out our guarantees. The installation comes with a 2 year warranty so if you experience any problem during this period we will come out and fix it.
What happens if there is a power cut?
- Our Sun Switch PV systems are entirely grid connected. If there is a power cut your system is automatically switched off. This is a safety measure designed to stop electricity leaking on to the national grid and to protect individuals who may be working to restore the power supply.
You may find more info about solar PV panels and feed-in tariffs at the Energy Saving Trust website at www.energysavingtrust.co.uk
Get a free solar PV survey on your house
The benefits of Feed-in Tariffs are clear. To find out exactly how you can benefit, contact us today and we'll arrange for an expert Sun Switch solar PV system designer based in your area to undertake a survey of your property and provide you with a proposal.
Critical changes to the Feed in Tariff scheme.
Alison Cutland,
Sun Switch sales manager
We have over 20 years' experience of helping people improve energy efficiency in their homes. Read about our heritage or contact us for a free, no obligation visit from a PV system designer based in your area.
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