How can Paul Obrien solar afford to reduce the cost of solar so dramatically?
In April 2010, Government introduced new laws requiring energy companies to pay for the renewable power generated by homes. These are called Feed-in Tariffs (or FiTs). It’s all part of the drive to reduce carbon emissions in the UK – a staggering 27% of which are produced from homes. With FiTs an average home could save/earn around £1k per year (look under ‘FiTs’ and Buy Solar on the site to find out more). Over 20 years, the homeowner could earn 5%-8% return. Fantastic but the homeowner still has to find the £11k upfront cost of a solar system, and be in it for the long, long term. The way Paul O’Brien’s business works is that we fund the solar installation. Homeowners get free electricity from the sun instantly and start reducing their electricity bills; Paul O’Brien receives the FiTs to recoup its investment and make a sustainable profit.
Will my lighting be dimmer?
No. You won't notice any difference whatsoever. If the panels aren't producing much electricity (as on a very dull day or at night time), the electricity from the grid will simply 'top it up'.
Do I have to switch the panels on each day?
No. They are working all the time. When there is no daylight, they are simply on 'standby'. You don't have to switch them on or off.
Can solar panels significantly offset environmental emissions?
Solar is a 'clean renewable' technology. That means, unlike fossil fuel based energy, such as coal and gas, solar is produced from a natural, infinite resource (we won't run out of light!) and produces no global warming CO2 emissions as it generates electricity. By installing a 2.5kWp system you will be saving about 1,000 kgCO2 each year compared to buying the same quantity of electricity from the grid. There is a carbon footprint associated with the manufacture and transport of a PV panel which varies by type but on average a PV system 'pays back' the embedded carbon emissions of manufacture in about 3 years.
Can solar can add value to my property?
In YouGov's survey in 2009, home buyers ranked energy efficiency as the third most important reason to buy, just behind outdoor space and a garage. In Energy Saving Trust's 2009 survey, 35% of people said they would be willing to pay more for a home where some of their energy supply came from renewable resources.
What happens after 20 years of the contract with Paul O’Brien solar?
After 20 years, the ownership of the system reverts to the customer, and they will continue to benefit from free electricity. The system will have a probable useful life of a further 15 - 20 years.