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Are This Week’s Rays Of Sunshine Making You Think About Going Solar?

With such high temperatures this week, it would be a shame not to make use of the sun's rays to power up your home.



Photograph: JoseMalagonArenas
Photograph: JoseMalagonArenas



Amidst all the sunny weather this week, you might be considering switching to solar power. If you’re unsure, understanding how much energy you use and how much you can save is key. 


Read more below to find out more about how we’re helping Jane to make the switch.

In this blog, we’ll look at an average before and after energy bill after installing solar panels to give you an idea of how much money solar panels can save you, just like Jane.


Electricity Bills Too High? How Solar Panels Can Help!


In essence, a solar power system enables you to produce your own electricity by harnessing the sun’s energy. Rather than relying solely on electricity from your utility company, most of your power needs can be met by your solar PV system.


This shift significantly reduces your monthly electricity bills.


It's important to note that the actual savings will depend on factors such as the size of your solar system, your household energy consumption, and other variables.


Here’s a straightforward look at how solar power can help you reduce your electricity bills and plan for the future:


Photograph: Joslyn Pickens
Photograph: Joslyn Pickens

Jane's Customised Solar Solution


Jane is considering making the switch to solar energy with 2Rays Solar. After an in-depth free consultation, we designed a bespoke solar system tailored specifically to her property through our virtual site evaluation. 


Her solution is inclusive of solar panels, a battery storage system, and an inverter. Her medium-large sized property would require a 4.69 kW system.


Let's take a look at Jane's solar proposal:


  • Annual Electricity Usage: 3,500 kWh

  • Estimated Annual Electricity Bill Savings: £588

  • Total System Price (including VAT): £10,500


Photograph: 2Rays Solar Design Calculations
Photograph: 2Rays Solar Design Calculations

As seen in the photo, we take into account several factors such as the inclination of your roof, the direction your house faces, and potential shading from trees or other structures to create a solar layout that maximises sunlight exposure and energy production.


By considering these factors, we ensure that your solar panels operate at their highest efficiency, providing you with the maximum possible energy savings and a quicker return on your investment.


Jane's Savings


Below is a savings comparison on Jane’s yearly utility bill. Her annual bill decreased by 70% from £843 to £255.




Over a 20 year time frame, Jane would have accumulated £19,458 in savings on utility bills (Rate not specified, estimated using Octopus Energy Tracker).


Her system would have a payback of 14 years. After deducting the initial system cost of £10,500, her net savings would be an estimated £8,958. 


That's an 85% return on her initial investment.





Solar vs. Traditional Energy Costs


Overall, it is clear that switching over to solar power will significantly cut your electricity bills. Traditional energy prices are volatile and have continued to rise, as they fluctuate with market conditions and geopolitical factors. 


Having a solar system can provide you with price stability after the initial investment - thanks to the sun’s free and abundant energy. You will save money by generating your own electricity. Over time, these savings can add up, making a big difference to your budget.


Not adopting renewable energy sources like solar has its own costs. With rising petrol prices and high energy costs, not to mention the socio-economic impacts of climate change, future-proofing your energy system is essential. Solar power helps mitigate these future costs by providing a stable and sustainable energy source.


Environmental Benefits


Solar energy is not only a long-term investment in financial stability but also environmental sustainability. By switching to solar power, you significantly reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet. Here are some of the key environment




Over the lifetime of the solar system, the environmental impact is equivalent to:


  • Avoiding 25,781 kilometres of car travel, which significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and dependency on fossil fuels.

  • Planting 166 trees, which helps in absorbing CO₂, providing oxygen, and supporting biodiversity.

  • Avoiding 18 long-haul flights, which are known to have a significant carbon footprint.


By choosing solar energy, not only could it be perceived as a smart financial decision, but it can also be a vital step towards protecting the environment. Solar power provides a clean, renewable source of energy that reduces dependence on fossil fuels, can help to decrease greenhouse gas emissions, and help to combat climate change. Embracing solar energy is a commitment to a sustainable future, ensuring that we leave a healthier planet for generations to come.


Credit: Anna-Marie Fischer


Reference list:

Ecoflow (2023), 'Can Solar Energy Stop Climate Change?', Available at: https://blog.ecoflow.com/uk/can-solar-energy-stop-climate-change/

Energy Saving Trust (2024), 'Solar Panels: A comprehensive guide', Available at: https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/advice/solar-panels/

Laura Puttkamer (2023), 'How Solar Panels Can Lower Your Electricity Bills', Available at:

2Rays Solar Design Calculations (2024)





 
 
 

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