With so much in the media recently about gas and electricity price increases, here at EcoVolt we have been getting a lot of queries from potential customers about the benefits of Solar energy. We have decided to address some of the common misconceptions and answer some frequently asked questions around Solar energy here.
It’ll cost too much to install
With prices for 8 Solar panels starting at €5000 (net payment after grant) you could see savings between €700 and €1500 per annum on electricity costs. Specific savings would be based on your existing energy consumption, your existing tariffs, which supplier you are with and some other factors. We would calculate your estimated savings using your current bills as part of our tailored install plan and quote.
They require too much maintenance
This is a common misconception around solar panels. In fact our solar PV panels come with a 25 year manufacturers guarantee. EcoVolt also offers a 2 year warranty on all installation work carried out by us. Once installed correctly your Solar panels should operate and generate power for your home or business maintenance free for 20+ years
Won’t generate enough electricity to power my house
The amount of power generated depends on the number of panels installed. EcoVolt recommends a minimum of 8 Solar panels which will be enough to power a standard busy home. In some cases additional energy will be created in excess of what is needed to power the home. This additional power can be stored in a battery or sold back to the grid.
Batteries are too expensive and only have a limited shelf life
While batteries can be expensive, not all solar systems require a battery. Some customers choose to have a battery which will store generated electricity and enable this to be used at night. Should you decide you don’t want a battery, you can choose to sell any excess power generated back to the grid. Battery life will range from 10 to 20 years depending on make and model. We work with Huawei and Soltaro models which are some of the best on the market.
It needs to be sunny to supply power
Not exactly, Solar PV panels utilize daylight to convert light into energy. As Ireland would have longer daylight hours from April till September, it is then that the Solar panels work best. In winter time, with less daylight hours you can expect approx a 40 – 50% reduction in generation.
Excess generated energy can be sold back to the grid
Customers can sell surplus electricity back to their electricity supplier. Similar to selecting a supplier you can shop around providers for the best offered rate as rates would be different from one utility supplier to another. There are currently some restrictions on the amount of energy that can be sold back and you would need a smart meter along with certified documentation and notification sent to ESB Networks prior to the fitting of the panels.
Excess generated energy can heat hot water using your existing Immersion
A device called a “Hot Water Diverter” can be fitted to your existing immersion tank that will turn on the immersion and only use excess solar energy. This device is extremely effective from April right through to September and can provide a full tank of hot water from solar which reduces heating bills if you heat water using gas or oil.
Pays for itself over time
Most Solar systems will pay for themselves in on average 4 to 6 years however, if the cost of gas and electricity continues to rise as it is predicted to do, this means a Solar system could not only pay for itself but also safeguard your home against rising fuel costs and potential shortages.
Grants
There is a generous grant to assist with the purchase and installation of Solar PV as a way to reduce your carbon footprint and energy costs. The solar PV grant is provided by the SEAI and information can be found Here
Will I need planning permission?
No, you will not need planning permission for residential solar panels in Ireland once they cover less than 12 square meters and are at 50 cm away from the edge of your roof. An expert supplier and installer like EcoVolt can advise you further.
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