Between 1990 and 2019, Ireland saw a near-eight-fold increase in the use of renewable energy sources. Predictably, solar PV technology has played a central role in that growth and continues to prove itself as one of the most economically viable, and environmentally sound ways to generate crucial energy for your home or business.

At Energy Quotes, we go beyond the superficial. For us, implementing sustainable technology is a process that should be done with precision and with diligence from start to finish. As part of our approach, we understand that imparting holistic knowledge and top-grade implementation support is what sets us apart.

Solar panels are a fascinating technology, with true potential to change the way we harvest and use energy. Here, you find a comprehensive outline of the importance of solar PV technology, as well as providing some vital information regarding how you can get the very most out of its use in your own life.

What are solar PV panels?

Solar PV panels are short for solar photovoltaic panels. Commonly made from silicon or other semiconducting materials, these panels contain atoms that collide with protons to create a strong, direct electric current.

After the direct electric current has been created internally, the charge is fed through an internal inverter. The inverter converts the energy to alternating current (AC), which is created by feeding the current through a wire loop in a magnetic field. While not as strong as DC current, AC can travel further than DC, allowing it to reach power outlets around the home.

Solar output is measured in Kilowatt-hours (kWh), with the maximum output being represented in kilowatt-peak (kWp). Kilowatt Peak indicates the maximum amount of power that a solar array can create for any given home, with one kWp being convertible to about 1,000 kilowatt hours, under normal exposure conditions.

Why are people choosing solar PV technology?

The reasons why people opt to pursue solar solutions in their homes and businesses around Ireland are numerous. Unlike burning fossil fuels like coal, oil, and peat to heat one’s home, solar panels do not emit any carbon, making them an emission-free technology.

Reducing one’s environmental impact may be one of the best arguments for investing in panels. However, as we will soon see, installing solar PV technology can also have numerous financial advantages and benefits that will yield results for a long time.

Among the top economic arguments for Solar PV panels is the financial independence they carry with them. The average panel array generates up to 4,000 units of electricity per year. Depending on the size of the home and usage variance, this can translate to a 50% reduction on a single home’s energy bill. By bypassing pre-established sources of energy, such as those coming from Bord Gais, Energia, and Flogas, consumers can free themselves from the ever-increasing price demarcations on traditional fuels.

For instance, Bord Gais’ charges an average of €2,434 for 20,000 kWh of natural gas per year. By installing a 5kW solar array, homeowners would be able to generate roughly half of that already-ambitious energy appetite without the burden of running costs.

Solar panels provide a unique functionality that allows for the consumer to extract domestic energy from the sun’s radiance, an asset that does not charge any premiums. While some initial costs come with the implementation of solar PV panels, the investment returns are difficult to beat.

How much do solar panels cost and how long do they last?

The proper size of a solar panel array depends wholly on the electricity needs of the home or business in question. Typically speaking, an array that includes 5 to 16 panels will generate 2 to 4 kWp, which would be sufficient for an average Irish home of four.

The panels themselves can range from €6,000 to €18,000. Energy Quotes relies on their network of trusted experts to ensure that you will have access to knowledge that fits your unique installation needs. For instance, size of home, typical energy use, and reliance on other forms of energy are all factors that come into play when determining the right panel array for you.

Another, often overlooked, benefit of solar PV technology is their long-lifespan, which translates to a brilliant return on investment. Although solar panels face a degradation rate of between 0.4-1% per year, PV technology possesses the ability to work for a very long time. Many solar panels can continue to operate with about 70% efficiency after 30 years, providing far more continuity in terms of pricing than can be found among any non-renewable energy providers.

Energy Quotes also works with installation partners that can offer warranties up to 25 years.

Like any asset, maintaining solar PV panels can also play a crucial role in prolonging their lifespan. Allowing the panel surface to accrue grime and other organic matter to build up can inhibit solar capacity by some 30%. For more on best solar maintenance practices, or to get in touch with one of our sikar maintenance partners, do not hesitate to reach out to us directly.

Ways to save even more on solar PV panels

Crucially, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland provides substantial financial support to homeowners who might be interested in installing solar PV panels on their property. More still, Energy Quotes possesses the connections and contacts to ensure that our clients will be able to avail of this additional cost-saving measure.

Under the SEAI’s Solar Electricity PV Grant, homeowners can receive payments ranging from €900 to €1,800 towards installing arrays in homes built before the end of 2020. To receive the grant payment, the installation must be done by a registered installer, something that Energy Quotes can arrange seamlessly.

Other schemes, such as the Targeted Agriculture Support Scheme (TAMS) provides Irish farmers with the option to receive up to 60% of the installation price on agricultural land. The maximum value for this scheme is €90,000, meaning that significantly sized panels can be installed at a remarkable discount.

Solar Panels area sustainability no-brainer

Representing one of the best returns on investment ever, solar panels have a unique ability to save Irish homeowners money, while also imparting numerous environmental benefits.

Energy Quotes provides a host of top-level suppliers who will understand your specific needs and limitations. Moreover, the long-term value simply cannot be compared to subjecting oneself to the unpredictability of non-renewable prices, as well as ensuring that your home or business can attain a degree of independence not possible with other traditional forms of energy sourcing.

Whether you want to embark on your solar journey today, or are merely interested in learning more about this exciting way to power your home, do not hesitate to reach out to us at Energy Quotes.