Solar Panel Grants & Subsidies

This New Year sees a few changes to the rates EDF will pay you for electricity generated by a solar electric system (Photovoltaic). In the short term the changes are largely for the better but there are clear signs that they will be reduced in the near future. In order for us to understand the new rates it’s necessary to understand the different installation options:-

Roof integrated solar panels - Simple integration

This method involves removing an area of tiles slightly bigger than the solar panels. A weather proofing system is then installed in place of the tiles. Aluminium rails are secured on top and the solar panels are slotted into them. The panels don’t provide any water proofing, so this is typically achieved by laying down stiff, interlocking plastic sheets or simply wriggly tin/zinc like you’d put on a shed roof.

2010 - €0.58 / kWh 2011 - €0.42 / kWh - Table

Roof integrated solar panels – Fully integrated

Again the tiles are removed but this time the solar panels are installed on an aluminium frame that is secured to the roof structure. There isn’t a water proofing system underneath the panels as the panels and their support structure provide it. Each solar panel slots into the frame along with UV resistant rubber seals between each panel. In effect you get a brand new, expensive glass roof!

2010 - €0.58 / kWh 2011 - €0.58 / kWh - Table

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