The UK government has been increasingly focused on promoting renewable energy sources, and one of the most popular initiatives involves funding and installing solar panels.
For homeowners, this can mean significant savings on energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint. Here’s what you need to know about government-funded solar panels and how you can benefit from this initiative, especially if you’re considering solar panels in Suffolk.
Understanding government funding
Government funding for solar panels primarily comes through various schemes and incentives to encourage the adoption of renewable energy. Here are three key programs that homeowners should be aware of:
ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation)
The ECO4 scheme is designed to help low-income households reduce their energy bills and carbon footprint. Under this scheme, major energy suppliers must provide funding for energy efficiency improvements, including installing solar panels.
To qualify for ECO4, homeowners must meet certain criteria related to their income or receive specific types of benefits. This scheme is particularly beneficial for those who might otherwise struggle to afford the upfront costs of solar panel installation.
Home Upgrade Scheme
The Home Upgrade Scheme (HUG) aims to support low-income households living in off-gas grid homes to improve their energy efficiency. This scheme offers grants to cover a range of improvements, including the installation of solar panels. Homeowners interested in this scheme should check with their local authorities for eligibility criteria and application processes.
Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) enables homeowners to sell excess electricity generated by their solar panels back to the grid. This scheme, which replaced the Feed-in Tariff (FiT), ensures that households are paid for the surplus energy they produce. Energy suppliers with over 150,000 customers are required to offer at least one SEG tariff, allowing homeowners to earn money from their solar panels.
Benefits of solar panels
The installation of solar panels brings a range of benefits. Firstly, they can significantly reduce your electricity bills. By generating your own power, you rely less on the grid, and any excess electricity can be sold back, providing an additional income stream.
Environmental benefits are also a key consideration. Solar energy is clean and renewable, reducing your home’s carbon footprint. This contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions is crucial in the fight against climate change.
Moreover, having solar panels can increase the value of your property. As energy efficiency becomes more important to buyers, homes with installed renewable energy systems are often seen as more attractive.
How to get started with movement funding for solar panels
If you’re interested in installing solar panels, the first step is to research available government and local funding options. Contacting local authorities or energy advice centres can provide valuable information on grants and incentives specific to your area.
Next, get a professional assessment of your property’s suitability for solar panels. Factors such as roof orientation, shading, and roof space will affect how effective your solar panels will be. In Suffolk, many companies offer free assessments and quotes for homeowners considering solar panels.
Finally, choose a reputable installer. Ensure they are certified by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) to guarantee the quality of both the installation and the equipment used. If you live in Suffolk, search ‘ Solar panels Suffolk’ on Google. Do the same for the area you live in.