Hey there! My partner is really eager to get solar panels installed at our home, but I'm a bit hesitant. I've done some reading and it seems like the savings compared to the initial costs often take a long time to materialize. Plus, I've witnessed some shady sales practices that make me cautious, especially since we have a small Victorian terrace with limited roof space. I'm worried that if we put money into solar now, we might not see any real benefits before we potentially move in the next five years. I'm also considering other house projects, like a loft conversion, which seem to offer immediate improvements and value. I'm open to solar power, but I'd love to hear experiences from anyone who's actually had it installed, especially with considerations for our scenario.
3 Answers
Although I don't live in the UK, I know that companies like Octopus offer integrated energy solutions, including solar panels and buyback options with good tariffs. If you want to take a DIY approach, make sure you have a realistic understanding of your energy needs and the complexity of your Victorian roof, which might not be the best for DIY installations.
Considering your limited roof space and the possibility of moving in five years, it might not be the best idea to install solar panels. Generally, the payback period for solar is longer than five years, especially if you only have space for a couple of panels to generate enough power for your home.
It really depends on the installation cost and how much power you'll get from the panels. They should provide detailed payback calculations, so check if you can get that info from them. There are some websites where you can estimate potential returns for selling back energy, too!
Thanks for the tip! I'll look into Octopus and consider my options carefully.