The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) was launched in the UK on January 1, 2020. It aims to promote investment in small-scale, low-carbon electricity generation, with a strong focus on solar panels, wind turbines, and hydroelectric systems. Managed by energy suppliers, the SEG requires those with over 150,000 customers to offer tariffs, rewarding customers who generate surplus electricity and feed it back into the grid. With varying rates and no set end date, it is essential for businesses to stay informed about the best deals available, making the SEG a significant driver for investing in solar energy.
While the SEG does not directly provide grants for installing solar panels, it does offer financial incentives. Businesses generating extra electricity can earn payments for the surplus energy exported back to the grid. This system not only helps in cutting electricity costs but also supports the UK’s transition towards a more sustainable, low-carbon economy.
Businesses interested in benefiting from the SEG should ensure their systems do not exceed a 5MW capacity, with micro-CHP systems capped at 50kW. A smart meter is essential to measure exported electricity. To engage with the SEG, one must register with an SEG licensee who will manage the payment for exported energy.
How to Apply:
The integration of solar panels into the roof can increase the property value of a home or commercial building. Potential buyers are often attracted to the energy-saving features and modern design elements offered by in-roof solar systems.
By harnessing the power of the sun, in-roof solar panels generate clean and renewable energy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering electricity bills. This sustainable energy source also helps to reduce carbon emissions, contributing to a greener environment.
In-roof solar panels make efficient use of available roof space by serving a dual purpose as both roofing material and energy generators. This optimisation allows for greater flexibility in design and layout, especially in areas with limited space for traditional solar installations.
Integrated solar panels boast a streamlined and lightweight design, making them particularly appealing for securing planning permission, especially for heritage or listed buildings. Unlike traditional solar installations, in-roof panels offer a cleaner and more aesthetically pleasing finish, seamlessly blending with the existing architecture. Additionally, their minimal weight means they pose little to no strain on structures that may have weight restrictions, ensuring compliance with planning regulations. This combination of visual appeal and structural compatibility enhances the likelihood of gaining approval for solar projects, even in historically significant or restricted areas.
Integrated solar panels offer the advantage of reduced maintenance needs compared to traditional solar installations. Since these panels sit flush with the roof surface, they eliminate the possibility of birds or pigeons nesting underneath, sparing homeowners the hassle of bird-proofing measures. Furthermore, the absence of visible fixtures means there are no spaces for debris to accumulate, ensuring a cleaner appearance with minimal effort. With in-roof panels, maintaining a pristine look is effortless, making them an attractive and low-maintenance option for sustainable energy generation.
In-roof solar panels have pros and cons. They’re pricier to install due to extra materials and complexities, needing careful planning and risking leaks if not done right. They also limit design choices, potentially raising cooling costs by blocking ventilation and making repairs tricky. These panels may be less efficient than traditional ones due to being embedded in the roof, which could affect sunlight exposure and airflow. Retrofitting them usually means re-roofing, as they’re integrated into the roof’s structure, ensuring proper installation but adding to the expense.
There are a number of integrated solar panel systems on the market to choose from. However, there are two ways to achieve an in roof solar system:
1. Use standard panels mounted using an in-roof frame such as the GSE system.
2. Use a bespoke system for which the panels are made specifically, such as Viridian or SolFit.
At Tarven Solar Energy, we typically recommend the GSE systems as they offer the least expensive route. Plus, the GSE system is a mounting system, allowing the in-roof installation of standard solar panels on new buildings or buildings being renovate. The system fits 90-95% of solar PV panels available on the market and can be designed to cover the whole roof surface, if necessary, subject to panel size.
Other benefits to GSE in-roof solar panels include:
So, are integrated solar panels worth it? Let’s look at the facts we have uncovered:
Integrated solar panels seamlessly blend with building architecture, enhancing aesthetics and potentially increasing property value. Their lightweight design ensures durability in severe weather and promotes energy efficiency by generating clean power, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering electricity bills. With minimal maintenance requirements and space-saving design, they offer a hassle-free solution for sustainable energy generation, suitable for a wide range of buildings and locations. However, there are a few challenges. In-roof solar panels are costly and complex to install, posing leak risks and limiting design options. They might hinder ventilation and be less efficient due to integration into the roof. Retrofitting often involves re-roofing for proper installation, adding to the expense.
We would always recommend consulting with a professional solar panel installer to weigh up whether in-roof solar panels are right for your bespoke requirements. If you think integrated panels are for you, get a free in-roof solar panel quote today. Or just give us a call and we can chat things through 020 3937 5577.
Choose us for high-quality solar panel installation or electrical services. Getting started is as simple as contacting us on 020 8087 0216 or sending an email to enquiries@tarvenlimited.co.uk.