Solar
How does solar work?
Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels consist of many cells made from layers of semi-conducting material, most commonly silicon. When light shines on this material, a flow of electricity is generated.
Contrary to popular belief, (particularly in Scotland where there isn't an abundance of sunny days), the cells don’t need direct sunlight to work and can even work on cloudy days. However, the stronger the sunshine, the more electricity the panels will produce.
Solar PV arrays are made up of several panels, with each panel generating around 420W of energy in strong sunlight. Typical systems will range from 6-10 panels and generate direct current (DC) electricity. Because the electricity used for household appliances is alternating current (AC), an inverter is installed along with the system to convert DC electricity to AC. This electricity can be used throughout your home, or exported to the grid.
FREE Solar PV Array
The Help4Homes (H4H) scheme is available to properties in Scotland to provide renewable energy to occupants with full funding towards solar PV panels and batteries.
The eligibility requirements for the scheme are:
- Any tenure
- No EPC band requirements
Must be one of:
- Means tested benefits
- Prepayment meter present
- LA Flex declaration
Household
- Minimum 3.2kW Array
- Minimum 3.3kW Battery (where possible)
Proposal
Key points:
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The homeowner will not be tied to any "roof rental" contract where the installer owns their roof in exchange for a free solar PV supply and installation
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The installed equipment will be owned by the homeowner once the handover is complete
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There is no repayment tied to the electric meter like previous "Green Deal" schemes
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There is no payment to be made for equipment - only where upgrades are requested by the customer which are above the standard supplied installation kit (e.g additional panels and battery upgrades etc.)