One of the foremost disadvantages of solar lighting system electricity

One of the foremost disadvantages of solar lighting system electricity comes from the pure nature of the power source - since the sun only shines during the day, this is the only time that electricity will be produced. Furthermore, electricity cannot be stored - it must be used when it is generated, meaning that if there is no demand for the electricity, then it will go to waste.

Fortunately, in the UK, the Feed in Tariff, a scheme introduced by the government, allows other homeowners connected to the national grid to use the excess electricity produced and in reward, the owners receive a tax free income every year.

How much do you need to invest?

Obviously, the cost of an installation is dependent on the size of your installation, which itself is dependent on a number of things:

• The surface area of roof suitable for solar panel use.

• Your energy usage needs.

• Your budget

You benefit from greater value for money on a larger solar inverter system thanks to economies of scale, but a large system can become very expensive very quickly. The typical solar panel installation on a UK home is approximately 3kWp and will cost around £8000 - £10,000 (including VAT at the rate of 5%). Be sure to get quotes from a variety of installers though, because prices can vary quite widely. A 3kWp system will save you around £70 per year on your household bills and prevent around one tonne of carbon dioxide emissions every year.