4 Ways to Ensure You Get Efficient Solar Panels

Solar PV is getting more and more popular. Installing solar panels is a fantastic way to generate your own energy and money. But if you’re thinking about doing it, it’s important to make sure you get the most efficient solar panels you can.

This is more difficult than simply purchasing panels with the highest efficiency rate. Keep reading to find out 4 ways to ensure you get efficient solar panels.

1. Decide on a budget

One of the first things you need to do when looking for efficient PV panels is decide on a budget. It’s not as simple as choosing to hand over whatever you need to for the top ones – the highest performing solar panels (typically 40 – 50%) will cost way too much. Rather, create a rough figure of how much you want to spend and do some research to see what it’ll get you.

2. Decide when you want to start earning a profit

It’s also important to think about when you want to start earning a profit with your solar panels.

If you plan to move out of your home sometime in the future or want to make cash from your panels as quickly as possible, blowing your budget isn’t ideal. Generally, the more you invest the more efficient your panels will be. But the more you spend upfront, the longer it’ll take to feel the financial benefit of the Feed-in Tariff and energy bill savings.

If long-term benefit is your aim, then buy the most efficient panels you can. But if your needs are more short-term, consider investing a bit less.

3. Think about space

It’s essential to think about space when solar panel shopping. Initially, work out how much space you have for panels in square metres. If you have limited room then it’s sensible to have a look at more efficient and expensive photovoltaic panels to increase your output. But if you have lots of space then it may be more cost-efficient to get more lower-efficiency panels to generate the energy level you need.

4. Take the time of year into account

The time of year may also affect you when you’re looking for efficient solar panels. If your goal is long-term advantage then when you install your panels is more than likely irrelevant. However, if you want to maximise your short-term photovoltaic panel performance, then attempt to install them in early spring. There are longer daytime hours in the spring and summer, so your panels will produce more energy.

Using these 4 steps should help you to find efficient solar panels that work with your budget and timescale.

Solar panel installers are great people to consult about prices and panel types. Complete our online form and we’ll put you in touch with up to 4 local MSC-certified contractors.


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