Frequently Asked Questions about Solar PV?

If you have a roof space that faces south, south east or south west then it’s likely you can have them. The other factor is the available roof space but we can check all this for you by completing a short survey. For example a 10 panel system requires only 15 square metres.

We have decided not to provide free panels because it’s not in the best long term interest of our customers. If the panels are provided free of charge the company who own them will receive the Feed in Tariff (FIT) which offers the biggest return to you. The only benefit you will get is the reduced energy cost on the same panel array. Finally, and very important, is the potential for huge problems if you come to sell your home by having a third party laying claim to product on your roof. The return on investment of installing Solar PV panels, even by borrowing, is still the best option so it is better to invest in the panels yourself if you can.

These are one and the same. It is a financial incentive backed by the Government and paid by your energy supplier to encourage you to create your own electricity. The tariffs give three financial benefits

Generated Tariff-
A payment for all electricity you produce even if you use it yourself.

Export Tariff-
Additional payment for any unused electricity you export to the grid

Import Tariff-
A reduction on your standard electricity bill from using energy you produce.

These benefits are index linked, tax free and guaranteed to be paid for 25 years.

A mid-range 2.76 kWp system produces what is referred to as kWh, kilowatt hours, which should generate in the region of 2,200 kwh per annum. Solar PV panels provide clean green energy and are a great way of protecting yourself against future energy price increases whilst earning a return on your investment.

We would expect that an average system will take around 10 - 15 years to pay for itself after which it will make money for its owner for the remainder of the Feed - In Tariff period of 25 years. In other words around 10 year’s worth of free benefits.

Quite simply, there’s never been a better time to invest because the Clean Energy Cash Back Scheme provides an excellent financial incentive. Whilst the current tariffs are fixed for 25 years, the scheme is likely to be reviewed in 2012 and the FIT may reduce for new entrants. The initiative is designed to encourage people to adopt cleaner energy solutions now and those making the change early have the most to gain financially.

The total installed cost of the system will depend on the size and ease of installation. It is not possible to give a precise figure without viewing the property in question. However Blazes offer a range of sizes to meet a customer’s budget with one thing in common. They all give an excellent return on investment.

This depends upon the system size and your own personal circumstances, such as the amount of time out of the house during daylight hours and your own consumption. As an example, a south facing roof mounted 3.92 kWp system installed in the Midlands should generate around 3,500 kWh per year saving around £400-£550 per year depending on your electricity tariff.

Early indications are that the prices will actually rise rather than reduce as all of the materials and resources required to produce them are likely to rise. Decisions should be considered based upon the current cost of installation and the very lucrative incentive provided by the Clean Energy Cash Back Scheme.

If you currently receive electricity from the national grid via an energy provider then you are grid connected and this means that any electricity generated by your panels but not used by you will be sent to the National Grid, for which you’ll be paid (Exported Tariff.)

Yes you can. There are several installation options available. Panels can be installed on outbuildings in some cases or on to frames on the ground. We can identify the best location during our short survey.

Unless your home is listed or is in a conservation area planning permission is not required.

No, this is why they’re such a great option. PV panels have no moving parts and the self cleaning glass keeps them maintenance free.

There are really just two types and we offer both, the difference between them manifests in different efficiencies so your choice is important in order to gain the maximum return on investment. It’s not necessarily the case that one is better than the other, they just operate differently, on some applications one will be the better performer whilst on another application that may well be different. The two types are:

Monocrystalline – Thin slices from single crystal silicon giving typical 14 – 17% efficiency

Polycrystalline – Thin slices from a block of silicon crystals giving typical 13 - 15% efficiency

Solar PV panels work on daylight not just sunlight but dense cloud will probably prevent them working. Our estimate of financial returns on investment take account of your UK location and the likely performance of the panels in your particular area.

In order to get the maximum financial benefit from your Solar PV panels we would always recommend installing the largest panel array you can. In most cases they would take up a significant amount of your roof. However, the space required inside your house is minimal.

We anticipate that for the majority of installations 2 days is adequate. One day to install the panels on the roof and another to install the ACDC convertor and connect to your electricity meter. The disruption is minimal.

Only approved systems installed by an MCS accredited Installer are permissible under the scheme. If the system is not installed by an MCS accredited installer the products will not be covered by manufacturer warranties or eligible for the Feed - in Tariff.

Most insurers will provide cover for the panels under the buildings section of your policy. Accidental damage cover on buildings is not always standard and you may wish to ask your insurer about including this cover for added peace of mind. We would also recommend that you contact your insurers to increase the sum insured under the buildings by the cost of the Solar PV panels.

Because we are a nationally recognised brand committed to providing our customers with the highest quality products at the most competitive prices and a standard of customer care to exceed your expectations. We have been established for 25 years and have a network of franchise partners throughout the UK equally committed to delivering excellence. Our size and longevity allows us to buy very competitively and pass those savings on to our customers.

Buying from Blazes is very straight forward. We will carry out a personal survey at your home, post our quotation to you and allow you to make your choice.