Solar PV - Photovoltaic Panels

What is Solar Power?

Solar power is one of the fastest-growing energy sources in the UK. To encourage consumers to use environmentally-friendly renewable solar energy, the Government pay Feed-In Tariffs (FITs). From August 2012 onwards, how much each home receives is dependant on its Energy Efficiency Rating: those rated D or higher are guaranteed 20 years of tax-free index-linked payments of 15.44 pence per kWh produced, while less energy efficient homes can expect 7.1p p/kWh.

On top of this, any solar energy produced by your photovoltaic system, but not used, is exported back to the National Grid for a further fee of 4.64p per kWh.

Financial advisers on renewable energy suggest that a typical home with solar panels with an Energy Efficiency Rating of D or higher can expect a return of around £800 per annum from their solar installation.

Solar payments are linked to the retail price index, therefore will rise with inflation and real returns are expected to be around 8% in the first year. You could pay back the complete system in just 9 years.

You are also producing your own energy, so you can save up to 50% on energy bills.

Why should I buy a solar installation now?

The Government have announced that FiTs are to be cut again based on the volume of installations from August 2012 onward.

The term of the FiT has been cut from 25 years to 20 years, while payments are currently index linked, it is rumoured that this may be a change made in the next cut of FiTs

If you’re looking for a solar panel installation in South Wales, the South-West or the Midlands, act now to avoid missing the best rates! Buying your solar PV installation today will guarantee an index-linked top rate for all homes at 15.44p p/kWH for 20 years – giving you a better deal than you can expect in 3, 6 or 12 months time

Request a no-obligation solar installation quotation TODAY!

Frequently asked questions on Leekes solar power

• Q. Does my solar PV system need a south facing roof?
  A. No, Solar PV energy works on radiation and not direct sunlight, so your solar panels will work on roofs facing other directions.
• Q. Will I need planning permission?
  A. Normally planning permission for solar panels is not required unless you live in a listed building or a conservation area. Our team of solar PV experts can guide you and progress an application on your behalf.
• Q. How long will the installation take?
  A. Normal solar installation is completed within two days although some may take longer. The majority of work is completed outside the home resulting in very little disruption.
• Q. What guarantee do I have that my solar panels will still be generating income in 20 years’ time?
  A. The Government has guaranteed the solar Feed-In Tariff for 20 years. We only use solar panels from leading manufacturers that guarantee their performance for 20 years. This is backed up by Leekes’ 10 year guarantee on our workmanship and product.
• Q. Will the panels cause problems to my roof?
  A. No, the fixing system sits just under the tiles and will not break the roof. The solar panels are very light, only weighing around 18kg each. We will undertake a full structural calculation on each customer’s roof.
• Q. What if I sell my home?
  A. Unlike a ‘rent my roof’ scheme, your solar tariff will be transferred to the new owners, resulting in the Solar PV system actually increasing the value of your home.
• Q. What is the cost of Solar PV?
  A. Systems start from £4,999** including VAT (inc VAT at 5%). However costs are dependent on the number of panels that a customer decides to install on their roof.

**£4,999 price based on a 1.44KW system.