Solar PV

Solar electricity systems capture the sun's energy using photovoltaic (PV) cells. The cells convert the sunlight into electricity, which can be used to run household appliances and lighting.

Do I need a south-facing roof?

A shade-free, south-facing roof is best but 45o 'off' south (eg. S-by-SW or S-by-SE) will only result in a 4% loss in potential energy. The best slope is between 25 and 40 degrees.

Will I need planning permission?

Not for most roofs. Keep the panel away from the edges/roof line and you should be fine (check with us or the Highland Council Planning Department if you need more information).

Does the PV system have to go on the roof?

No, but if you put your panels up in your garden you can still get full FiTs payment as long as the power goes into the house like a roof-mounted system. However, such a system requires Planning Permision if it exceeds 9m2.

What might a typical system cost and how long before they have paid for themselves?

A 12 panel, 2.8 kWp (kilowatt 'peak') system will cost around £11 - 12k and take around 9 - 11 years to pay for itself.

What is the FiT rate for solar PV?

For existing roofs, currently you would be paid 41.4p/unit (with slight variations down for 2 years and then, index-linked, up) for 25 years up to a maximum power of 4 kWp (around 16 panels). This appears to generate around a 7-9% tax-free return on investment. The Government has indicated that it plans to review this rate in 2012.

Do we get enough sun in Lochaber?

It would seem so. Look at the map below. We can expect around 900kWh per square metre annually, about the same as the scottish borders or the north of England.