For every 25 buildings in the UK, you will be able to spot solar technology and according to Solar Energy UK, rooftop solar power installations doubled in a year (2023). There is a solar revolution and it is becoming increasingly popular, not just for homeowners, but businesses too. Businesses are discovering the benefits, such as saving a substantial amount of money on utility bills.
With the help of government incentives and rebates for businesses and residential homeowners, solar panels have become more accessible and affordable. Keep reading this article to discover more about when and how solar photovoltaic systems began to take over the UK.
What is a Solar Photovoltaic System?
Just as with any other solar technology, a photovoltaic system captures the sun and transmits it back into usable electricity. This technology comes in various sizes and is gaining popularity, especially for commercial properties. The appeal lies in the fact that businesses frequently possess larger rooftops capable of capturing substantial amounts of energy, often sufficiently powering entire warehouses.
How Does a Solar Photovoltaic System Work?
Sunlight, consisting of energy packets known as photons, strikes a solar panel, initiating the generation of an electric current through the photovoltaic effect. To render solar electricity practical, the generated DC power must undergo conversion to AC using an inverter. The resultant AC electricity from the inverter can be utilised to power local electronics or transmitted to the electrical grid for broader use.
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How Long Do Solar Panels Last?
Usually, solar panels have an average lifespan ranging from 25 to 30 years. However, with proper maintenance and timely repairs, they have the potential to endure even longer, making them a worthwhile and enduring investment.
Benefits for UK Business Owners
With electricity prices rising, there is the obvious benefit that commercial solar panels can benefit business owners financially as they will reduce their utility bills substantially. Here are 5 other ways that solar energy will benefit business owners.
Reduced Overhead Costs
Diving a little deeper into how exactly solar energy can reduce costs for businesses. Solar panels on commercial properties give business owners the benefit of reduced utility bills, usually sitting at around a 70% reduction.
Energy Dependence
Businesses have the opportunity to be energy-dependant, meaning that they will not rely on the national grid to power offices, warehouses, or commercial kitchens and actually have the opportunity to sell electricity back to the grid (earning money) or store it for a time when it may be essential.
Decreased Environmental Impact
Through harnessing energy from the sun, solar panels produce no emissions, avoiding contributions to air or water pollution. This capability enables businesses to diminish their carbon footprint and showcase a dedication to sustainability. Additionally, the adoption of solar energy can assist businesses in meeting environmental regulations and adhering to established standards.
Government Incentives
As the UK strides toward its 2050 net-zero goal, the government extends diverse support to businesses transitioning to green energy. Companies can enjoy advantages such as tax rebates and various incentives. The UK initiated the Feed-in Tariffs (FIT) scheme, aimed at fostering the adoption of renewable and low-carbon electricity generation, which concluded in 2019.
Presently, although partially substituted by the Smart Energy Guarantee, the compensations provided by energy companies for supplying power have decreased. The primary advantage of rooftop solar energy lies in offsetting costly grid-purchased electricity, with solar farms presenting the most economical power option in the UK.
Scalability Energy Solution
Finally, business owners can rest assured that solar energy is entirely scalable, ensuring that their expanding energy needs can be effectively met. Solar energy systems can be customised to align with the specific requirements of any business, offering a versatile and adaptable solution suitable for enterprises of all sizes.
