How to cut your energy bills by 66 per cent
For those worried about rising energy prices, one solution may be to install solar panels and a storage battery.
That’s the view of Midlands green energy expert Ron Fox, who was commenting on a two-year study by the London-based Centre for Net Zero.
They gave homes free solar panels and a storage battery, which cut heating bills by almost two thirds with an average saving of £681 per year.
“It is ground-breaking research which could have a huge effect on the energy industry, the National Grid and the need to build so many more electricity pylons across the country,” said Ron, of Noreus Ltd on the University of Keele Science and Innovation Park.
He said the advantages were:
- Homes equipped with solar panels and a storage battery drew 77 per cent less net energy from the National Grid, while getting electricity directly from the grid dropped by 38 per cent.
- Researchers noted that lower dependence on the national grid eased pressure on fossil fuel power stations and reduced the need for new infrastructure such as electricity pylons.
- Solar panels and a battery continue to deliver savings of around £24 a month even during the darker winter months.
- Separate studies, such as research from ScottishPower, showed that low-carbon additions like solar panels boosted average UK property values by around £10,000.
- By storing off-peak energy and using it or exporting it during the 4 PM to 8 PM evening peak, the systems cut peak-time grid imports by 66 per cent.
- Using solar panels means there are no more nasty surprises with increased energy bills from the utility companies.
- It is an environmentally-friendly choice to provide your home with electricity, central heating or hot water.
- It makes you money – solar PV panels come with attractive green energy incentives backed by the Government.
But Ron pointed out the high upfront cost of installing batteries and panels means it is a long-term plan.
“However, with energy bills rising to their highest levels for three years this month, with the 4 per cent increase in the price cap to £1,723 for a typical household, this could be the time to look at solar panels and battery storage for your home,” concluded Ron.
This article raises some important questions, said Ron. Have you thought of installing solar panels and a storage battery as some of our readers have? Would you be interested in finding out more from an expert? Do you think this research could have a big impact on the energy industry? Send your views to Ron Fox at [email protected]
For more details about installing solar panels and a battery and other green energy ideas call Ron on 0845 474 6641 or contact us here
Caption: Powerful message – installing solar panels and a battery can cut energy bills by almost two thirds. Picture: Ron Fox
