Solar Panels Pros and Cons: An Unbiased Look
Beyond the sales pitch. We examine the real advantages and disadvantages of residential solar usage in the UK.
✅ The Pros
- Significant Bill Reductions
Slash electricity bills by 50-80% depending on system size and habits.
- 0% VAT Incentive
Government tax relief makes it 20% cheaper than historical norms until 2027.
- Low Maintenance
No moving parts. Rain cleans them mostly. 25-year warranties are standard.
- Energy Independence
Protect yourself against volatile global gas prices and price cap hikes.
- Property Value
Energy efficient homes (EPC A or B) are increasingly desirable to buyers.
❌ The Cons
- High Upfront Cost
£6,000+ is a lot of money to find, though financing is available.
- Weather Dependent
Generation drops by ~90% in December compared to June. You will still need the grid in winter.
- Can't Take It With You
Unlike a car, you can't easily move it. You need to stay in your home 5-10 years to see ROI.
- Aesthetics
Some people dislike the look of panels, though sleek all-black options are now standard.
- Inverter Replacement
While panels last 25 years, the inverter usually fails after 10-12 years and costs £800-£1500 to replace.
The Verdict?
For most homeowners with a south/east/west facing roof who plan to stay put for 5+ years, the pros heavily outweigh the cons. The financial return (8-10%) beats most savings accounts.
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